China is set to unveil its first domestically developed 16-meter class super-large diameter tunnel boring machine (TBM), named ‘Jinghua Hao’, at the upcoming 2026 CCTV Science and Technology Innovation Gala. This impressive engineering feat represents a significant advancement in China’s underground construction capabilities.
‘Jinghua Hao’: A Giant of Tunneling
The ‘Jinghua Hao’ TBM is a collaborative effort between China Railway Construction Heavy Industry Group and China Railway No. 14 Bureau Group. It boasts an impressive length of 150 meters and a total weight of 4300 tons. Its maximum excavation diameter reaches a remarkable 16.07 meters, making it the largest diameter TBM independently developed in China to date.
The machine made its debut on September 27, 2020, rolling off the production line in Changsha. A striking feature of the ‘Jinghua Hao’ is its cutter head, which is painted with a vibrant red Peking Opera face mask design, symbolizing Chinese culture and heritage.
This colossal machine was instrumental in the tunnel excavation tasks for the Beijing East Sixth Ring Road renovation project, showcasing its power and precision in complex infrastructure development.
The 2026 Science and Technology Innovation Gala
The 2026 edition of the ‘China Science and Technology Innovation Gala’ (科晚) is currently in the planning stages, with preparations commencing in 2024. This event is a joint initiative by the CCTV Social Education Program Center, Anhui Station, and the People’s Government of Hefei City.
While the official broadcast date for the 2026 gala has not yet been announced, the main stage has been confirmed to be located in Luogang Park, Hefei City. This area, formerly Hefei’s old airport, has been transformed into one of the world’s largest urban parks.
For context, previous editions of the gala have typically aired around the New Year’s Day holiday. The 2026 gala is anticipated to be broadcast in late 2026 or early 2027.
The appearance of the ‘Jinghua Hao’ TBM at this prestigious event underscores China’s rapid progress in advanced manufacturing and large-scale engineering projects. It serves as a testament to the nation’s self-reliance and innovation in critical technological sectors.
