China's Liaowang-1 redefines naval space surveillance
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 enables the monitoring of satellites, rockets, and missile tests from international waters, according to Army Recognition.
Liaowang-1, succeeding the Yuan Wang class units, ushers in a new era in Chinese strategy by integrating maritime operations with space support, Army Recognition explains. This ship's mobility allows it to cover areas beyond the reach of ground stations, thereby enhancing China's strategic flexibility.
Liaowang-1 - China's new capabilities
Its deployment also highlights the country's ability to conduct operations far beyond its own borders, presenting a challenge to the USA and its allies. From a military perspective, ships like Liaowang-1 play a crucial role in modern conflicts. They facilitate the tracking of missile and satellite trajectories, which is vital for national security. Moreover, the ship can support Chinese military satellites, such as the Beidou navigation system.
The name of the ship, Liaowang-1, means "Observer-1" in English. It was designed and built by China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), a state-owned conglomerate responsible for a large 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 has captured the interest of military analysts from the outset. Although officially classified as a "surveillance ship," its role is much more complex. This complexity is attributed to an advanced array of sensors, radar systems, and both radio and satellite antennas installed on board, including large, distinctive superstructures reminiscent of those 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 is equipped with a helipad suitable 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 fitted with advanced electro-optical and radar systems. A notable feature is the large spherical radar dome on the bow, akin to those used in satellite communication and global monitoring systems.
