China launched the TJS-15 satellite on March 9, 2025, utilizing a Long March 3B rocket. The satellite is focused on high-speed communication technology, adding to a series that supports classified military operations. This launch is a part of China’s broader space ambitions for the year, including 100 planned orbital launches and several notable missions.
On March 9, China successfully launched the TJS-15 satellite into geosynchronous transfer orbit using a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. This mission was largely anticipated due to prior airspace closure notices, although details regarding the payload were initially undisclosed. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) later confirmed that TJS-15 is primarily designed for verifying multi-band and high-speed satellite communication technology.
The TJS satellite series, which began with its first launch in 2015, now includes 14 active satellites. The recent TJS-15 joins the series, which is believed to support the People’s Liberation Army through potential classified operations such as signals intelligence and satellite inspections. CASC’s brief descriptions align with past TJS missions, maintaining a level of operational secrecy.
Noteworthy past missions include TJS-3, which deployed a subsatellite capable of close maneuvers around U.S. satellites. Importantly, TJS-13 was notable for entering a Molniya-like orbit, allowing it extensive coverage over high latitudes, useful for northern hemisphere communication and monitoring.
The TJS-15 launch marks China’s 10th orbital launch of 2025. Planned launches for the near future include the Long March 8 from Hainan on March 11. CASC has yet to announce the anticipated number of launches for 2025, following a previous target of around 100 launches for 2024, which was not achieved.
This year, China is set to debut various commercial rockets, alongside missions such as the Tianwen-2 asteroid sample return and the crewed Shenzhou-20 and -21 missions to the Tiangong space station, further advancing its space activities.
The launch of the TJS-15 satellite highlights China’s ongoing expansion in space technology, with particular emphasis on advanced communication capabilities. The TJS satellite series, shrouded in secrecy, serves multiple strategic purposes linked to national defense. Additionally, the ambitious launch plans for 2025 reflect China’s commitment to enhancing its presence in space, showcasing significant upcoming missions that indicate a robust future trajectory in both commercial and scientific endeavors.
Original Source: spacenews.com
