"China needs to train more pilots and coaches to operate subs. A transparent submersible is in the boardroom. Once it is in commercial production, it will help more people realize their dreams of deep-sea travel without damaging the marine environment."

Ye Cong, one of the three oceanauts of China's manned submersible, the Jiaolong, said on Thursday more subs will be built as the country bolsters its marine economy.