China's total length of submarine oil and gas pipelines has surpassed 10,000 kilometers (about 6,214 miles), a milestone that signifies a "comprehensive leap" in the country's engineering technology and equipment capabilities in the sector, China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) announced Sunday.

The state-owned energy giant and largest offshore oil and gas producer said the achievement underscores the nation's transition from shallow-water to ultra-deepwater pipeline operations. 

Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan period in 2021, more than 1,500 kilometers of new pipelines have been laid, reaching maximum operating depths of 1,542 meters (about 5,059 feet).

CNOOC has collaborated with domestic universities, research institutes, and enterprises across the industrial chain to strengthen original technological innovations during the current five-year period. 

These joint efforts have led to advancements that place China "at the international forefront" in technology and equipment for pipeline laying, the company said.

The network now includes submarine oil and gas pipelines with diameters ranging from 2 inches to 48 inches.

Looking forward, CNOOC revealed plans to continue enhancing core technological capabilities for submarine pipeline engineering.  

The company also aims to improve the sequence of operational equipment and accelerate the intelligent and digital transformation of the sector. 

With the comprehensive leap, the focus on innovation and capacity building is expected to further solidify China's position in complex offshore energy development.