China has reportedly conducted a successful test of a 'deep-sea electro-hydrostatic actuator' that can be used to cut through undersea cables up to a depth of 3,500 meters. SCMP reports the device was launched from a research vessel last weekend, and that the state hailed a successful test and the bridging of the gap between development and application, hinting at its readiness for deployment.
According to the report, the 'Haiyang Dizhi 2' completed the first deep-sea mission of the year on April 11. The electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA), uses hydraulics, an electric motor, and a control unit combined into a single device, jettisoning the requirement for lengthy and cumbersome external oil piping. The device was reportedly further strengthened against deep-sea pressure and corrosion, enabling "precise mechanical tasks" at very low depths. A September report cited by the article notes that this technology has previously been touted "for cutting subsea cables and operating deep-sea grabs."
