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China advances comms capability with Long March 5 classified sat and LandSpace Zhuque-2E direct-to-device test satellites

China has conducted two launch campaigns aimed at improving communications capacity, including a Long March 5 flight lofting a classified payload and a LandSpace Zhuque-2E mission delivering experimental connectivity satellites. LandSpace also indicated further methane/liquid-oxygen launches later in the year.

Discovered 2026-06-10T11:03:46.153230-07:00 | 2026-06-10T11:03:46.153230-07:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

Demonstrates near-term momentum in direct-to-device and connectivity payload development, echoing earlier industry D2D demonstrations such as OQ Tech and Telefónica Germany’s smartphone satellite-comms test.
Highlights how China is combining government-classified spacecraft demand with commercial launcher throughput—an approach shaped by market constraints and customer deadline pressure, as covered in launch cadence and deadline constraints in 2026.
Reinforces the broader expansion of domestic Chinese launch capability and services described in CAS Space’s debut of a commercial launcher plus on-orbit servicing tests.

Reported By

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