China has launched a satellite network for transmitting data. The effort would give the country its own version of the US-based satellite communication network Starlink.
State-run China Central Television reported that the 18 low-Earth-orbit craft were sent by rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi Province, inland China, on Tuesday. It said a state-owned enterprise developed the devices.
It said the network is the first phase of the “Spacesail Constellation” plan to provide broadband internet services. More than 10,000 satellites will be launched by the end of 2030 under the project.
The Starlink network, provided by US-based SpaceX, has already been offering widespread internet services to consumers. The network has reportedly played a crucial role in the use of drones and other battlefield communications by the Ukrainian military in countering Russia’s invasion.
China may also aim at using its satellite network for military purposes.