Chapter 1080
Elder Li Takes Action to Push Forward the Project
"I've lived for almost eighty years. I've seen too many inspiring blueprints, and I've also seen too many projects come to nothing."
A complex emotion flashed in Old Li's cloudy eyes as he patted Su Dingping on the shoulder.
"When it comes to materials, even the slightest difference can lead to vastly different outcomes. Whether it's atomic-level precision, gradient heterogeneous structures, or neutron transmutation self-organization... every step involves pitfalls that no one has encountered before!"
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the experts still engaged in heated debate in the conference room, and lowered his voice even further.
"You think they're just arguing about the technical route? They're actually gambling with the fate of the nation! Every path to the tokamak, no matter how difficult, has a precedent to follow. But your path with the stellarator is about forging a completely new one!"
"What if... I mean, what if, after three to five years, there's no breakthrough in materials, the funds run out, and we're even left behind in the tokamak field? Do you know the consequences?"
Old Li had confidence in Su Dingping, but having confidence did not mean he could let Su Dingping do whatever he wanted.
Su Dingping lowered his head and remained silent. Of course, he knew why Elder Li was worried, but he could not reveal the existence of the system, nor could he tell Elder Li that he had all the experimental data.
Once we overcome the material hurdle, the stellarator will be within reach!
After a moment's thought, he could only respond with his own logic: "Mr. Li, I understand!"
"But scientific progress requires continuous innovation and breakthroughs. If we continue our research on tokamak devices, we'll just be following in the footsteps of other tribes like the Eagle and getting our hands on their dust!"
"Back then, who could guarantee the success of our 'Two Bombs, One Satellite' program? But we succeeded, didn't we?"
“That’s different.” Old Li shook his head. “The two bombs and one satellite were a necessity, a choice between life and death, while controlled nuclear fusion is a vision, an icing on the cake for the country’s science and technology.”
"The country is in a period of rapid development, and there are too many things to take care of. You should understand that we can't put all our eggs in one basket."
Su Dingping took a deep breath: "I didn't let the country gamble everything. I suggested a two-pronged approach! The research on the tokamak should continue, and the stellarator project should be a separate project with dedicated funding and the recruitment of researchers who volunteer to join."
"Regarding funds... I will try my best to save money and not add too much burden to the country!"
His frugality was well-known, and even the high-ranking officers in the navy felt sorry for him.
His tireless research led to the modernization of the navy, enabling it to hold its head high in the eyes of other countries. However, Su Dingping lived a simple life and had few desires.
Such a person is someone you wouldn't know how to make amends to; you can only admire them from the bottom of your heart.
Seeing that Professor Li remained silent, Su Dingping continued, "Professor Li, I stand by my ideas, and I am confident that the material development cycle will not be too long."
"I have already designed a miniaturized experimental device. Now we are synthesizing centimeter-sized samples in the laboratory to verify the core performance. As long as the samples can be produced, the subsequent engineering scale-up is only a matter of time."
Old Li stared at him for a long time, and in a daze, he remembered his own youth, when he was also full of energy and unwilling to admit defeat.
It is precisely because of such researchers, generation after generation, who have made great strides, that Longxia has come to be what it is today!
"I have high hopes for your drive. You've never failed before, from the Type 052B destroyer to powered aircraft carriers, so this time..."
"I'm willing to support you!"
Old Li's attitude softened, and Su Dingping felt a warmth in his heart. All his efforts these past few days had finally paid off!
Next, it's time to get the others on board.
Actually, this matter is quite simple. Su Dingping decided to start a separate project to study it in parallel with the tokamak device, which only required recruiting volunteer researchers.
Once his experiment achieves a breakthrough, I believe no one will gossip anymore.
"You submit the report, I'll sign it!"
Old Li smiled slightly and made a major decision in his heart: "But I have one condition: every step of the materials research and development must be open, transparent and subject to supervision. We cannot work behind closed doors, and we cannot be impatient for quick results and conceal problems!"
He had seen far too many cases of academic fraud; there were countless people who sought fame and fortune.
The reason why Mr. Li trusted Su Dingping so much was because of Su Dingping's past deeds.
Su Dingping nodded immediately, overjoyed: "Don't worry, I will definitely do it! All experimental data and failure cases will be compiled and archived, and made available to all participating units!"
He knew how much pressure Li Lao would be under when making this proposal. The country's affairs were already numerous and complex, and there were countless places where money needed to be spent.
His project requires the government to allocate a portion of its funds for investment, and there is even a possibility that there will be no return!
This is what Mr. Li meant when he said it was a gamble on the fate of the nation!
"And another thing," Old Li added, "the ultra-strong magnetic field device, the femtosecond laser interferometry system... the country can coordinate for these cutting-edge devices you need."
"But you have to promise that these devices will not only serve the stellarator project, but will also be open and shared with research teams in other domestic institutions!"
"Your goal is to achieve controlled nuclear fusion, not to build a closed technological barrier!"
Su Dingping agreed with a beaming smile; even if Old Li hadn't brought it up, he would have taken the initiative to do so.
"I can't wait for more people to use these devices for research. Maybe they can spark more inspiration and help us solve materials problems!"
Old Li patted him on the shoulder, turned and walked towards the conference room: "Let's go, I'll help you put in a good word. Whether it works or not depends on everyone's consensus, but at least you need to let Su Youren see your determination and confidence!"
Su Dingping followed behind Old Li, and looking at the old man's slightly hunched but still upright back, a warm feeling welled up in his heart.
The older generation of pioneers who came through the war years possess an indescribable courage. They always want to use their aged shoulders to support the younger generation, and support them a little longer.
Old Li walked to the front of the conference room and tapped on the table.
"Everyone, please be quiet."
The noisy conference room fell silent instantly, and everyone's eyes were focused on Old Li.
"Regarding Comrade Su Dingping's stellarator project, I would like to share my views."
Old Li's voice was hoarse but powerful: "It is undeniable that this project is extremely risky, especially the research and development of core materials, which is world-class in difficulty!"
"But we cannot deny its value because of the risks. Controlled nuclear fusion is the ultimate direction of future energy. The more routes there are, the more hope there is."
"These past few days, I believe you have all witnessed Comrade Su Dingping's determination and theoretical reserves in this regard without me having to say anything. Ask yourselves honestly, could any one of you have done it?"
The researchers below looked at each other and couldn't help but lower their heads.
Over the next two days, their discussions with Su Dingping focused on scientific research. Su Dingping demonstrated solid theoretical knowledge in all areas, and even offered entirely new perspectives on some issues. This provided significant inspiration to many researchers.
It is already remarkable for a person to master one kind of knowledge and continue to study it in depth, but Su Dingping seems to have studied everything.
This isn't just genius, this is monster!
If they weren't monsters, how could Longxia Military Industry have surpassed the Eagle Tribe in just a few years?
If Su Dingping didn't have his own research projects, they would definitely apply to the state to let Su Dingping help with their projects, and they would even be willing to give up their leading role!
Being recognized by so many people is a skill, and that's what Mr. Li is like. But there's no one like Su Dingping at such a young age before, and it will be very difficult in the future!
Seeing the expressions on the faces of the researchers below, Professor Li smiled slightly and continued, "I suggest that we adopt Comrade Su Dingping's dual-track parallel approach."
"The tokamak device project continues to proceed as planned, ensuring that the research is not interrupted. At the same time, the stellarator project was approved and a special fund was established, led by Comrade Su Dingping, which shows the cross-disciplinary research and development team."
He paused for a moment, then continued, "Although I'm getting old, I still want to get involved in this project, so I'll just lend my name to it."
"Hey kid, you got a problem with that?"
Anyone with eyes can see that this is Old Li's care for Su Dingping. I can't help but feel a little jealous. Old Li has never been this kind to this family of descendants.
It's important to understand that not everyone, like Su Dingping, knew that the stellarator project would definitely succeed. If it failed, Su Dingping would be a sinner who wasted national resources!
Mr. Li voluntarily listed his name on the project not to share in the profits or credit, but to provide a guarantee.
If the project succeeds, the person who is nominally named will not receive any credit. If the project fails, Professor Li, the nominal professor, will bear all the blame. Everything he has done is paving the way for Su Dingping!
This shows that he sees Su Dingping as his successor.
Su Dingping was deeply moved, feeling the care and love that Elder Li showed him like an elder.
"Mr. Li, I am very happy to have you join the project team. I still have many questions I would like to ask you."
Old Li chuckled and said, "As long as you don't mind that this old man is in the way."
He then looked down at the researchers and said, "As for the concerns about funding and resources, I will personally communicate with the relevant departments and explain to the country."
"If we squeeze in, there's always some left. This isn't just for ourselves, but for the future of the country! I think the country will be willing to invest!"
"Furthermore, we can encourage qualified enterprises to participate in the collaboration, forming an integrated R&D model that combines industry, academia, and research!"
These words, once spoken, were like a pebble thrown into a lake, creating ripples.
Professor Li's meaning is clear: if the country's funds are insufficient, then attract private enterprises to invest and share the fruits of scientific research.
The advantages of doing this are obvious: funding is secured. The disadvantages are also predictable: there is a risk of research results being leaked. The advantages and risks go hand in hand.
The previously aggressive head of the assessment center stood up and said seriously, "Mr. Li, I still maintain my point of view. Running both sides in parallel means the dispersion of funds and manpower, which is very likely to lead to failure on both sides!"
"Furthermore, the stellarator project is too immature; rushing into it would be a waste of resources. I object!"
"How will we know if we don't try?" Old Li retorted. "Back when we were developing high-speed rail, wasn't it a process of introducing, digesting, absorbing, and then innovating?"
"Back when we were working on the Empress Dowager, didn't we also start from scratch?"
"There is no absolute certainty on the road of scientific research, only the courage to be a pioneer! Comrade Su Dingping's past achievements have proven his ability and vision. Why can't we give such a talent a chance?"
"I agree with Mr. Li's opinion!"
An academician from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation stood up, his expression excited: "The research and development of materials for the sixth-generation fighter jet led by Comrade Su Dingping has proven his expertise in the field of materials for extreme environments."
No one understands Su Dingping's capabilities in materials research better than researchers in aerospace technology. Stealth coatings and high-temperature resistant alloy materials were all developed under Su Dingping's leadership.
Therefore, he stepped forward to express his support for Su Dingping.
"Although the core materials for the stellarator are more difficult to develop, the technical logic he presented is sound and not just wishful thinking. I am willing to draw on the technical backbone of our team to participate in the material development!"
With the first responder, more experts quickly expressed their support.
"I think the dual-parallel approach is both reliable and has the potential for breakthroughs."
"If the development of core materials is successful, it will not only serve controlled nuclear fusion, but also drive progress in multiple fields such as aerospace and nuclear industry. It's a worthwhile investment!"
"Comrade Su's projects have never disappointed, and I am willing to trust him."
The risks in the conference room gradually reversed, and voices supporting the stellarator project grew louder. The head of the evaluation center looked at the situation before him, opened his mouth, but ultimately said nothing.
General Liu Huaming sat silently in the corner, listening intently. He had come over the day after Su Dingping arrived.
But he wasn't a researcher and couldn't get a word in edgewise, so he remained silent until this moment, when he finally stood up.
"Comrades, the purpose of the debate is to find the optimal solution. It seems that the two-way parallel approach is the best choice to balance stability and breakthrough."
His gaze swept across the room, and his tone was serious and earnest: "On behalf of the military, I would like to state that once the stellarator project is approved, the military will provide its full support!"
"We will cooperate unconditionally in terms of testing sites, security measures, and necessary technical collaboration!"
"Controlled nuclear fusion is not only about people's livelihood, but also about national strategic security. We need stronger energy support to take the initiative in future international competition!"
Although Liu Huaming is only the Navy Commander, his presence represents the attitude of the entire military.
The military's support means that Su Dingping's stellarator project is unstoppable and will receive the highest level of protection, which also means that its strategic value has been fully recognized.
At this point, no one objected anymore.
After several days of debate, the stellarator project has finally come to an end.
Su Dingping stepped forward and took a deep look at the experts and leaders from various fields present: "Thank you for your trust and support!"
"I assure everyone that the stellarator project will go all out to strive for a breakthrough in core research as soon as possible!" (End of Chapter)