New ocean forecasting model unveiled in Qingdao WCNA

The actual interface and capabilities of the "Langya" Ocean Large Model 2.0. [Photo/WeChat account: qdxihaianfabu]

The fourth China Digital Earth Conference started on June 6 in Qingdao West Coast New Area, bringing together over 1,300 experts from more than 100 academic institutions, government bodies, and businesses to discuss advancements across 65 parallel sessions.

A key moment in the opening ceremony was the launch of the "Langya" Ocean Large Model 2.0, a smart global forecasting system for ocean events.

Independently developed by the Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, this version improves upon the previous model by using multi-source observations, a deep understanding of processes, and AI.

While the original version focused on state variables, the 2.0 release introduces six specialized vertical models for complex events like typhoons, precipitation, storm surges, internal solitary waves, mesoscale eddies, and sea ice.

The upgraded system enhances forecasting for critical scenarios; for example, the typhoon model improves 24-hour path and strength predictions, and the storm surge model gives real-time data for over 400 tide stations. Notably, its sea-ice module — capable of month-long Arctic predictions at 3-kilometer resolution — was ranked first in the global models in the 2025 International Sea Ice Prediction Comparison Project.

Langya 2.0 turns ocean forecasting from abstract data to clear, useful decision-making tools, giving key support for maritime disaster mitigation and shipping security, while being a big step in AI and ocean science.