Is China Building Its Own Starlink Rival?

Could this be a game-changer in the geopolitical balance of power?

A state-owned company in China has successfully launched the first set of satellites for a major new constellation, according to news sources.

Beijing’s goal of developing a Chinese version of Starlink reached a significant milestone with the launch, which was led by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) and took place at the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in Shanxi province.

The arguments

China’s massive satellite project, spearheaded by SSST, may herald a new era in the competition for supremacy in space on a global scale. In addition to posing a challenge to Starlink, China is addressing the military risks associated with the existence of foreign satellite networks in orbit by establishing a sizable constellation of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

A Response to Military Concerns?

China is involved in more than just business with its satellite project. The possible military applications of Starlink, especially its usage in wars like the one raging in Ukraine, have alarmed the Chinese leadership. China is now more motivated than ever to build its own satellite network, which has the potential to tip the scales of power in low-Earth orbit.

Competition in Earth’s Lower Orbits

The SSST launch is a calculated military manoeuvre rather than merely an attempt to outbid Starlink on the market. There is a growing competition among nations with competing interests in national security and commerce to take over Earth’s lower orbits. The implementation of extensive satellite constellations has the potential to alter the balance of power among nations.

Mass Production and Technological Advantages

China wants to mass-produce its LEO satellites, just as Starlink. These satellites have clear benefits over GEO satellites, even though they require more units for complete coverage. Their lower orbit is especially beneficial for both military and civilian uses as it decreases latency and boosts data throughput.

The facts

In 2019, SpaceX’s Starlink started deploying its constellation of satellites. It has launched about 6,000 satellites to date, giving over 100 countries access to broadband internet services.

The main users of Starlink are businesses, government organisations, and consumers, especially those who live in distant places.

By 2030, China’s SSST intends to have over 15,000 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites in operation. According to the plan, 108 satellites will be launched this year, 648 by the end of 2025, worldwide network coverage by 2027, and ultimately 15,000 satellites.

In comparison to geostationary (GEO) satellites, these spacecraft will provide greater throughput and lower latency while operating at altitudes between 300 and 2,000 km.