Shenlong

The Strategic Implications of China’s ‘Divine Dragon’ Spaceplane 

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Defining ‘Responsible Behavior’ in Space Is a Growing Necessity

In December 2023, China launched its Shenlong (Divine Dragon) military spaceplane. The craft was designed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT).  China had previously tested experimental orbital spaceplanes in September 2020 (lasting two days) and August 2022 (which lasted 276 days). The current mission is still in progress. Last December, the spaceplane … Read more

Another Launch for China’s Reusable Space Plane

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China and Strategic Instability in Space

Outer space continues to be drawn into both technological advancements and geopolitical competition. On December 14, China launched a reusable space plane for the third time on a Long March 2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. A Xinhua News report said that the space plane was launched in order to run various space … Read more