35-ton deep-submergence rescue vehicle (original) (raw)

The People's Republic of China developed a class of 35-ton deep-submergence rescue vehicle (DSRV) for the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). It was first tested in 1986 and operational in 1989. The DSRV may perform a rescue at depths up to 200 metres (660 ft). Six or 22 survivors could be carried. This suited contemporary PLAN submarines which deployed infrequently and typically to coastal waters. The submarine may also perform salvage work. It has a manipulator arm and a diving chamber for six divers.