China expands strategic reach with new naval space-tracking ship
The Chinese navy has added the modern vessel Liaowang-1, marking a significant step in developing the capability to track outer space. Equipped with advanced radars and antennas, this ship allows for the monitoring of satellites, rockets, and missile tests from international waters, reports Army Recognition.
Liaowang-1, as a successor to the Yuan Wang class units, ushers in a new era in Chinese strategy by integrating maritime operations with space support, explains Army Recognition. Thanks to its mobility, the ship can cover areas beyond the reach of ground stations, thereby increasing China's strategic flexibility.
Liaowang-1 - China's new capabilities
Its deployment also underscores the country's ability to conduct operations far beyond its borders, posing a challenge to the USA and its allies. Particularly from a military perspective, ships like Liaowang-1 play a crucial role in modern conflicts. They allow for tracking the trajectories of missiles and satellites, which is vital for national security. Additionally, the ship can also support Chinese military satellites, such as the Beidou navigation system.
The name of the ship, Liaowang-1, means "Observer-1" in English, and it was designed and built by China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) - a state-owned conglomerate responsible for a significant portion of China's shipbuilding capabilities, including warships, research vessels, and special-purpose units.
Liaowang-1 was officially unveiled at the end of 2023, and it has attracted the interest of military analysts from the start. Although officially classified as a "surveillance ship," its role is actually much more complex. This is due to an advanced array of sensors, radar systems, and both radio and satellite antennas installed on board – including massive, distinctive superstructures reminiscent of those found on American SIGINT (Signals Intelligence) units.
The length of the vessel exceeds 100 metres, and its displacement is estimated to be around 6,000–7,000 tonnes. The ship features a helipad for medium-sized helicopters, allowing for operations of Z-9 or Z-20 types – the Chinese equivalents of well-known Western designs. The deck and superstructure are filled with advanced electro-optical and radar systems. A notable feature is the enormous spherical radar dome on the bow – similar to those used in satellite communication and global monitoring systems.
