China Applies to Launch 200,000 Satellites Into Space

China has submitted a request to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) seeking approval to deploy up to 200,000 satellites into space.

Reports indicate that on December 29, 2025, two Chinese companies formally filed applications to launch the satellites. The request was submitted to the ITU, a United Nations agency responsible for coordinating global telecommunications, including satellite operations.

Conditions for Satellite Deployment

According to the application, any satellite operator seeking approval must demonstrate that their satellites will not interfere with existing or planned systems in space. This requirement is intended to prevent congestion and technical conflicts in Earth’s orbit.

The request comes amid intensifying competition between China and the United States in space exploration and advanced technology.

Details of the Satellite Constellations

China’s proposal includes launching at least 96,714 satellites per constellation, divided into two major systems known as CTC-1 and CTC-2. These satellites would be positioned at altitudes exceeding 3,660 kilometers, significantly expanding China’s presence in near-Earth space.

If approved and fully implemented, China’s satellite network would surpass SpaceX’s Starlink project, which plans to deploy approximately 49,000 satellites.

Impact on Global Space Competition

The two Chinese constellations would form the largest satellite network ever proposed, potentially limiting available orbital space for other companies and nations seeking to operate in low and medium Earth orbit.

Experts warn that such dominance could reshape the balance of power in global satellite communications and space-based infrastructure.

Security and Military Concerns Raised

While Chinese authorities have not officially commented on the plan, analysts and academics have raised concerns over its potential security implications.

According to China in Space, researchers at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics say the satellites are expected to focus heavily on security, defense systems, and airspace monitoring.

The satellites could function similarly to SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, which are used by the U.S. military for secure communications and strategic operations.

Growing Strategic Importance of Space

As nations race to expand their satellite capabilities, space is increasingly viewed as a critical domain for national security, communications, and technological leadership.

China’s request underscores the rapidly evolving nature of global competition in space and highlights the growing importance of international regulation to manage orbital congestion and security risks.