On January 1st, 2026, the fully - automated container terminal at Qingdao Port, part of the Shandong Port Group, played host to a 366 - meter - long container vessel named the "Mediterranean Saudi Arabia". This ship was making a slow and steady approach to the terminal quay for mooring operations. In a stark contrast to conventional operational approaches, there were no workers present at the scene to fasten the mooring ropes. Instead, the cargo ship harnessed the power of the terminal's vacuum - based automatic mooring system. This system automatically carried out hull identification and precise positioning.

Utilizing the powerful suction force generated by vacuum suction cups, the ship was firmly and securely anchored at the berth in a mere 30 seconds or less. This highly efficient operational scene served as a clear indication of the official launch and commissioning of China's first vacuum - based automatic mooring system at Qingdao Port.