Chinese researchers are preparing to launch nearly 13,000 satellites into low Earth orbit as part of a plan to enhance and monitor the Starlink network.
Starlink first debuted in 2019, providing satellite internet access to 50 countries.
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying 60 Starlink satellites was launched from Kennedy Space Center (USA) on October 6, 2020. (Photo: Getty Images).
According to RT, the project is called GW and is led by Associate Professor Xu Can from the Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The China Satellite Network Group will manage the launch of 12,992 satellites into orbit designed to enhance communication efficiency.
Although the satellite launch schedule has not been disclosed, Professor Xu’s team indicated they plan to deploy before the Starlink network is complete. Researchers added that this move will ensure China secures a position in low Earth orbit and prevents Starlink satellites from overexploiting resources in that region.
The number of GW satellites is expected to exceed the current total of about 3,500 Starlink satellites. Previously, SpaceX had planned to deploy 12,000 devices by 2027, ultimately aiming for a total of 42,000 devices.
According to Xu and his colleagues, China will place its satellites in orbits where Starlink satellites have not yet reached. This would allow China’s satellite network to gain numerous opportunities and advantages at different orbital altitudes, potentially countering Starlink. The research team further noted that the GW network could also be equipped with technology for long-term monitoring of Starlink satellites.
Xu’s team also suggested that the Chinese government might form an anti-Starlink alliance with several other governments to demand SpaceX disclose the precise orbital data of Starlink satellites.
Previously, Chinese military figures expressed concerns about the national security implications posed by SpaceX satellites and called for the development of destruction technologies to disable the operating systems of these satellites if necessary.
China’s efforts to counter Starlink occur amidst growing concerns over the potential military applications of this global satellite network. The internet service provided by Starlink has been used to enhance communication for Ukrainian military forces throughout the conflict with Russia. In early February, SpaceX implemented measures to restrict the use of internet features for controlling military drones in Ukraine.
