What are China's new satellite network filings?

China has filed for two non-geostationary satellite networks with the ITU, potentially comprising 96,714 satellites each.

Why did China file for these massive satellite networks?

The filings aim to secure priority for orbital and spectrum resources for future megaconstellations amid growing global competition.

Are China's CTC-1 and CTC-2 networks operational?

No, these are early-stage ITU regulatory filings that secure priority dates but do not authorize satellite deployment.

Home / Technology / China Files for Huge Satellite Constellation

China Files for Huge Satellite Constellation

12 Jan

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Summary

China filed for two non-geostationary satellite networks with 96,714 satellites each.
Filings secure priority for spectrum and orbital resources for next-gen constellations.
Move aims to secure long-term spectrum priority amid growing global competition.

China Files for Huge Satellite Constellation

China has submitted two significant filings to the International Telecommunication Union for non-geostationary satellite networks, each proposing a staggering 96,714 satellites. These filings, designated CTC-1 and CTC-2, were lodged in late December 2025. They represent an early strategic effort to secure priority for orbital slots and crucial spectrum resources for future megaconstellations.

These early-stage regulatory submissions, while not yet authorized for deployment, highlight the intense competition for limited space and spectrum. By securing priority dates, China aims to safeguard its long-term options for developing advanced satellite systems, akin to SpaceX's Starlink and Amazon's Project Kuiper.

This initiative complements China's ongoing development of national constellations like Guowang and Qianfan. Further filings from China indicate plans for additional satellites in medium Earth orbit and direct-to-satellite services, underscoring a comprehensive national strategy to expand its space infrastructure.