China launches 25 LEO satellites to expand internet constellation

China has successfully launched 25 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites for a satellite internet network. The mission, conducted on September 17, 2026, utilized a Long March 12 rocket from a commercial space launch site in Hainan.

The Long March 12 is a new generation cryogenic liquid propellant rocket developed by the eighth academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. It is China’s first single-core launch vehicle with a 4-meter diameter. This mission marks the eighth launch for the Long March 12 rocket.

These launches contribute to the expansion of the Qianfan Constellation, operated by Guanshi Satellite. Following recent launches of 10 and 8 satellites on September 15 and 16, the constellation's scale has increased to 256 satellites. The project aims to deploy 324 satellites by the end of 2026 to provide commercial satellite internet services in key global regions. The long-term plan for the Qianfan Constellation involves multiple phases, eventually reaching a scale of over 15,000 satellites to provide integrated services across ground, satellite, airborne, and maritime networks.