Beijing (PTI): China would test its deep-sea submersible which can reach up to 7,000 metres below sea level, the State Oceanic Administration said.

"Research on the manned submersible had been given equal importance with Chinas space endeavours," official Xinhua news agency quoted the administration as saying.

China launched its first lunar probe, Change-1 last year. During 2008, it plans launches of over 10 spacecraft, including Shenzhou VII when one of its three astronauts will conduct the nations first spacewalk.

It said crew selection for submersible project which began in August 2006 will conclude by 2010.

China would complete building its first-phase deep sea base project by 2010.

The project will be equipped for deep sea natural resources inspections, and research and tests of equipment designed for deep-sea use.