On September 17, 2026, a Long March 12 rocket lifted off from Wenchang Space Launch Site carrying nine Low Earth Orbit communication satellites for China's SatNet constellation. The satellites, operated by the state-owned China Satellite Network Group, represent the 25th batch deployed as part of an ambitious megaconstellation program. When complete, the SatNet constellation is expected to comprise approximately 13,000 satellites, positioning China as a major competitor in the global low-Earth orbit communications market alongside existing mega-constellations.

The Long March 12 rocket, developed and operated by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, launched from the Wenchang Space Launch Site located on Hainan Island. Wenchang has become a primary launch facility for China's satellite constellation deployments, offering geographic advantages for polar and near-equatorial orbit insertions required for global coverage missions.

The launch concluded successfully, with all nine satellites reaching their intended orbits. This mission continues China's systematic approach to building out SatNet's global broadband coverage capability, supporting the nation's long-term space infrastructure objectives and advancing its commercial space sector alongside domestic and international communications needs.