China launches first low-orbit satellite constellation into space to compete with US

In a move that clearly demonstrates its ambition to become a space power, a Chinese state-owned enterprise officially launched its large-scale low-orbit satellite constellation project on August 5.

The launch of the first batch of satellites marks the beginning of a race to build a global satellite internet network, directly competing with the US's Starlink satellite constellation. This clearly shows Beijing's determination to establish an independent and modern communications system and promises to open a new era of satellite internet services, from rural areas to the most remote areas.

The event is a clear demonstration of the remarkable development of Chinese space technology. By putting a series of satellites into orbit, Beijing is opening a new era for satellite internet services, promising to bring high-speed and stable connections to billions of users around the world.

The race for low-Earth orbit is not just a technological contest, but also a contest for military advantage. Control of these orbits has the potential to influence the balance of power between warring nations.

In a remarkable development, China officially launched its satellite constellation project at the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, one of China’s most important space facilities. The event is not only a scientific and technological achievement but also a statement of Beijing’s growing space ambitions.

The launch is part of China's “Starlink G60 Project,” which began last year and aims to launch more than 15,000 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites into space.

LEO satellites typically operate at altitudes between 300km and 2,000km above the Earth's surface and have the advantage of being cheaper and providing more efficient transmission than satellites operating at higher orbits.

Meanwhile, the Starlink constellation, the brainchild of billionaire Elon Musk, with some 5,500 satellites in space, is quickly becoming the world’s largest satellite network, with tens of thousands of users in the United States and many other countries around the world. With plans to expand significantly, Starlink promises to revolutionize global connectivity. However, the system is also attracting special attention from Chinese military researchers, who have recognized Starlink’s significant military potential and warned of the risks it could pose in future conflicts.

The deployment of the US Starlink satellite constellation has forced countries around the world, including China, to reassess the importance of cyberspace. A commentary published in the mouthpiece of the People’s Liberation Army of China in January argued that the Starlink satellite constellation poses many potential risks to national security.

In response, China has set out its ambition to build a large-scale satellite network through the Starlink G60 satellite constellation project to allow them to close the gap with the US Starlink satellite constellation. Accordingly, the plan put forth by the Chinese government is to launch 108 satellites into space this year, 648 satellites by the end of 2025, providing global network coverage by 2027 and reaching 15,000 satellites deployed before 2030.

These ambitious plans underscore China’s commitment to becoming a major player in the low-orbit satellite sector. The ability to provide near-global internet coverage would not only bring commercial benefits but also enhance national security.

The success of this project will depend largely on the ability to maintain abundant investment capital and continuous technological innovation. The launch of the first batch of satellites has opened a promising new chapter in China's space race. With the ambition to build a satellite system similar to Starlink, Beijing is aiming to become a leading space power in the world, thereby reshaping the global communications landscape and strengthening its military strength.