The "Langya" Ocean Large Model 2.0, an artificial intelligence-powered forecasting system for global ocean phenomena independently developed by Chinese researchers, was officially released in Qingdao, Shandong province, on Saturday.

Researchers said the model will provide intelligent support for marine disaster prevention and mitigation, maritime safety, polar navigation, and efforts to address climate change.

Building on its previous version, Langya 2.0 expands beyond forecasting ocean state variables to predicting complex ocean phenomena. The upgraded model focuses on six key areas: typhoons, precipitation, storm surges, internal solitary waves, mesoscale eddies, and sea ice, according to Li Xiaofeng, a research fellow at the Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and a member of the development team.

To support these applications, researchers developed six vertical models, establishing multi-scenario and systematic predictive capabilities. For example, the typhoon prediction model integrates atmospheric and oceanic environmental data, satellite cloud imagery, and historical storm records, significantly improving 24-hour forecasts of typhoon tracks and intensity, particularly for storms that rapidly intensify or suddenly change direction.

Wang Fan, director of the institute, said Langya 2.0 integrates multi-source observations, scientific understanding of ocean processes, and AI-driven reasoning, advancing ocean forecasting toward greater speed, precision, and interactivity.

The research team plans to explore new intelligent ocean agents in the future, covering marine ecology, fisheries, and corrosion prevention for major offshore facilities, he said.

Besides, plans are underway to introduce the Langya series to developing countries and regions that lack the resources to build large-scale ocean observation systems, providing them with cost-effective solutions for monitoring and forecasting ocean phenomena, he added.

The name "Langya" is derived from Cihai, the encyclopedia of the Chinese language. It represents a precious treasure characterized by fine texture, crystal clarity and jade-like qualities—symbolizing the model's exceptional value and precision, according to the institute.

In ancient China, Langya Terrace, located in the Qingdao West Coast New Area, served as a site for astronomical observation and calendrical forecasting, reflecting China's long-standing tradition of exploring and understanding the sea, the institute added.