Answer: China
Notes: China has approved the construction of a deep-sea research facility in the South China Sea. This facility, also known as a "deep-sea space station", is expected to be operational by 2030. The facility will be located 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) below the ocean's surface. It will be one of the deepest and most technologically advanced underwater installations ever attempted. The facility will study cold seep ecosystems, which are methane-rich hydrothermal vents. It will accommodate six scientists for missions lasting up to a month.
