China's satellite ambitions set to challenge Starlink's reign
Chinese enterprises are gearing up to create a vast satellite network to rival Elon Musk's Starlink system. This project will involve deploying approximately 38,000 satellites in orbit as part of three distinct constellations: Qianfan, Guo Wang, and Honghu-3. While ambitions are high, the path to success might be challenging.
SpaceX is currently leading the race for domination of the space-based internet. The company already has nearly 7,000 operational satellites and serves about 5 million customers in more than 100 countries. SpaceX plans to expand its constellation to 42,000 units.
Other entities are also active in the satellite internet market. The European company Eutelsat OneWeb has launched over 630 satellites into low Earth orbit. Meanwhile, as part of Project Kuiper, Amazon aims to create a network of more than 3,000 satellites, although the company has only launched two prototype devices so far.
China wants to take over space-based internet
Steve Feldstein from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace notes that China's involvement in the space-based internet project has deeper political significance. According to the expert, Starlink's success in providing uncensored internet to remote areas challenges China’s information flow control model.
Blaine Curcio from Orbital Gateway Consulting suggests that China may use censorship as a distinguishing feature for their service in some markets. The expert claims that although they might not be first to market, they can offer effective content control as an asset for certain countries.
Strategic significance of the project
Juliana Suess from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs emphasizes that the Chinese satellite network may find customers in countries not covered by Starlink. She lists Russia, Afghanistan, and Syria among them. The expert points out that Huawei built 70% of Africa's 4G infrastructure, potentially aiding China's expansion.
Feldstein argues that the war in Ukraine demonstrated the strategic importance of satellite internet in armed conflicts. The expert highlights its role in conducting drone operations and creating a networked battlefield. In his view, these experiences are prompting China to develop its satellite constellation as a vital component of national security.
