China tests sea-based rocket recovery system in bid for reusable space technology

China has successfully tested a new sea-based rocket recovery system, marking a major step in its efforts to develop reusable rocket technology and compete with the United States in the space sector.

The experimental test was carried out on Friday at the Wenchang commercial space launch site in Hainan province. A Long March 10B rocket was launched and later its booster returned vertically to an offshore platform, where it was successfully recovered using a net-based capture system.

According to Chinese state media, the booster separated from the rocket’s upper stage about six minutes after launch before making a controlled return to the sea platform.

The successful recovery is considered a significant milestone for China, as it represents the country’s first successful retrieval of an orbital-class rocket booster.

The Long March 10B also delivered a satellite into its planned orbit during the mission. The achievement boosted shares of several Chinese aerospace companies following the announcement.

The rocket has been compared with SpaceX’s Falcon 9 due to its reusable capabilities. However, unlike Falcon 9, which lands on platforms using deployable legs, China’s system uses four landing hooks to catch a net installed on an offshore recovery platform.

Chinese aerospace experts said the net-based recovery method could reduce rocket weight, simplify onboard systems, and improve payload capacity while allowing greater flexibility during landing attempts.

Reusable rocket technology is seen as a key factor in reducing launch costs and expanding commercial space operations. SpaceX has already achieved frequent reusable rocket launches, with Falcon 9 boosters being reused multiple times.

China has been developing reusable launch systems for nearly a decade, conducting several tests ranging from low-altitude flights to orbital-class recovery attempts.

The country is also encouraging private aerospace companies to develop reusable rockets as global competition in commercial space technology intensifies.