Jielong-3 Launches Satellite Internet Test Satellite from Sea
Summary: At 19:32 Beijing Time on April 11, 2026, China successfully launched a satellite internet technology test satellite using a Jielong-3 solid rocket from the sea near Yangjiang, Guangdong Province. The satellite entered its planned orbit successfully, marking the 11th flight of the Jielong-3 and the series' 12th launch overall.
Image credit: Xinhua (Guo Jinqi)
The satellite internet technology test satellite was developed by CAST (China Academy of Space Technology, a subsidiary of CASC). It is part of China's national "Space Skynet" (GW constellation) initiative to build an integrated space-ground satellite internet. Key technologies being tested in orbit include Ka-band broadband communications, inter-satellite laser links, onboard routing/switching, direct-to-cell satellite connectivity (connecting ordinary smartphones directly to space broadband without special terminals), and seamless integration with terrestrial 5G/6G networks.
This marks the first sea-based launch for the Jielong-3 rocket. The Jielong-3 is a four-stage solid-fueled launch vehicle developed by CASC's First Academy, primarily designed for sun-synchronous and LEO missions with a 1,500 kg payload capacity to a 500 km SSO.
The launch was the second rocket mission conducted from the Yangjiang sea area this year, further demonstrating China's growing sea launch capabilities.