5 publishers · first seen Tue, 27 Oct 2026 22:04 UTC · updated Thu, 29 Oct 2026 20:45 UTC
The US Defense Intelligence Agency has released a declassified satellite image showing China's experimental reusable spaceplane in orbit, confirming its identity and revealing a design similar to the US Space Force's X-37B. The image, captured by Maxar Technologies and included in a report dated October 26, shows a winged, shuttle-like vehicle with an open payload bay and solar panels, during what is believed to be its third orbital mission in 2024. China has conducted four spaceplane missions since 2020, with the latest beginning on February 7, 2026, and the spacecraft observed releasing and recapturing smaller objects during orbital operations.
The DIA report states that China has two primary spaceplane models: the Shenlong and Tengyun, without specifying which is shown. It also warns that China has multiple ground-based laser weapons capable of disrupting, degrading, or damaging satellites in low Earth orbit, and may field space-based directed energy systems by the late 2020s. The assessment highlights growing space competition, including China's testing of anti-satellite missiles, satellite servicing technologies, and robotic arms, alongside similar developments by Russia and the United States.
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