China expands satellite networks for smart connectivity

China expands satellite networks for smart connectivity
by Riko Seibo
Tokyo Japan (SPX) Jun 02, 2025

With the recent launch of four additional satellites, China is rapidly expanding its presence in low-Earth orbit to support growing demands for smart device connectivity through the Tianqi constellation.

Following in the footsteps of SpaceX's Starlink, several Chinese aerospace companies are investing in satellite networks aimed at building critical digital infrastructure for the Internet of Things (IoT).

The Tianqi satellite constellation, developed and operated by Beijing-based GuoDianGaoKe Technology, now comprises 37 satellites. This global network supports smart cities, maritime monitoring, emergency communications, and environmental monitoring.

The latest additions have reduced the constellation's revisit time to five minutes, representing a 37.5 percent improvement in operational efficiency. This is vital for ensuring real-time data transmission.

"Tianqi has filled a technological gap in China's low-orbit IoT satellite field. Its technical systems, performance and terminal indicators have reached internationally leading levels," said Lyu Qiang, chairman of GuoDianGaoKe Technology.

The company plans to expand its reach into consumer markets, including smartphones, smart vehicles, and wearable devices. The second phase of Tianqi will involve launching more satellites to enhance services for these applications.

In parallel, Geespace, a commercial space subsidiary of Chinese automaker Geely, is deploying its Future Mobility Constellation to provide intelligent connectivity for vehicles. The constellation currently has 30 satellites across three orbital planes, with 90 percent global coverage.

Wang Yang, CEO of Geespace, explained that the constellation will eventually consist of 72 satellites for global real-time data communication, 264 satellites for direct smartphone connectivity, and 5,676 satellites for global broadband services.

The constellation now enables Geely's Zeekr and Galaxy electric vehicles to maintain connectivity even in areas without traditional ground networks, allowing users to send and receive messages via satellite.

Geespace launched commercial operations in the Middle East in June last year and aims to extend coverage to North Africa by 2025, marking a major milestone for Chinese space ventures on the international stage.

Industry experts say that satellite-based connectivity is essential for autonomous driving technologies, offering reliable communication in areas with limited network coverage. According to Grand View Research, the global autonomous driving market is projected to reach $557 billion by 2030.

Geespace's new facility in Taizhou uses modular design and intelligent manufacturing to reduce production costs by 45 percent, with an output of up to 500 satellites per year.

Meanwhile, the growth of China's low-altitude economy has driven the need for low-altitude intelligent networking infrastructure. This sector includes drone-based services and technologies integrating 5G, Beidou navigation, and satellite internet.

"Low-altitude intelligent networking, as the digital foundation for the low-altitude economy, can ensure the safe operation of low-altitude aircraft," said Lu Feng, a researcher from a Beijing technology research institute.