The first batch of Internet-satellites for the Chinese megacorporation Guowang was successfully launched using the Chinese heavy launch vehicle Long March 5b. The mission carried 10 satellites to a height of about 1,100 kilometers, placing them at different heights and orbital modes.
Guowang is a massive project involving 12,992 satellites designed to provide high-speed Internet with minimal delays. The network structure is similar to the American Starlink, but China has not disclosed details about markets, technical specifications, and user equipment.
The plans for Guowang were initially announced in 2020 when applications were submitted for radio frequency distribution to the International Telecommunication Union. China Satnet, established in 2021 and controlled by the Chinese government, manages the project. The company has limited public presence and no official website.
The launch of Guowang highlights the increasing interest in military applications of low-orbiting networks. For example, Starlink is being actively used by the American military for connectivity and operational coordination. The U.S. Army is also testing the system for military-like scenarios and utilizing the platform to deploy intelligence satellites in low orbits.
The commencement of Guowang necessitates a significant enhancement in the country’s missile capabilities. China is currently developing a commercial space launch segment, including projects focused on creating reusable rockets to lower launch costs and increase frequency. Despite the Long March 5b’s high cost, it remains the primary means of delivering large satellite constellations.
China is obligated to deorbit half of the constellation’s satellites – 6,496 devices – by 2032 to comply with international radio frequency usage requirements. Leading nations are closely monitoring the program’s progress. U.S. Space Command representatives have pointed out the potential military applications of the network and the challenges of disrupting such groups compared to single large satellites.
The development of megaconstellations like Guowang, Qianfan, and American Starlink and Kuiper is reshaping the global dynamics in space. Space agency leaders are urging responsible behavior from operators to avert collisions and debris accumulation in low-earth orbit. However, the dialogue on space operation safety between China and international entities remains limited, with occasional notifications from the Chinese side about upcoming satellite maneuvers but lacking regular data exchange.
The plans to compete with Starlink in China were discussed in February last year when Chinese researchers revealed intentions to establish a vast constellation network comprising 12,992 satellites. The project, operated by the recently formed China Satellite Network Group, operates under the codename “GW.”