It's full steam ahead for the development of tourism subs

A maritime technology company plans to develop China's first-ever manned submersibles for civilian use with Russian scientists, and the product is expected to be ready for the market by the end of this year, a senior executive said.

The developer, Tianjin Ostar Underwater Vehicles Co Ltd, said the submersibles would be able to carry between 20 and 40 passengers at depths of up to 24 meters. Two of China's well-known tourism operators from Zhangjiajie in Hunan province and Beibu Gulf in southern China have shown interest, said Zou Yongchunhe, deputy general manager of the company.

The craft will be capable of performing flexible maneuveres to minimize the impact on the environment, including underwater plant life, fish and coral.