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Yaogan
遥感卫星
Yáogǎn Wèixīng
VRSS-1 satellite based on the Jianbing-6 class of Yaogan satellites
Program overview
CountryChina People's Republic of China
OrganizationSAST
CAST
PurposeReconnaissance
StatusActive
Program history
First flight26 April 2006
Successes149
Failures1
Launch sites
Vehicle information
Launch vehicles

Yaogan (simplified Chinese: 遥感卫星; traditional Chinese: 遙感衞星; pinyin: Yáogǎn Wèixīng; lit. 'Remote Sensing Satellite') is the designation used by the People's Republic of China to refer to its military reconnaissance satellites.[1][2] Yaogan satellites are largely known to primarily support the People's Liberation Army's Strategic Support Force (PLASSF), formerly the Aerospace Reconnaissance Bureau of the Second Department of the General Staff.[3][4][5] The Yaogan program is the successor to the Fanhui Shi Weixing (FSW) recoverable reconnaissance satellite program but, unlike its predecessor, includes a variety of classes utilizing various means of remote sensing such as optical reconnaissance, synthetic-aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) for maritime surveillance. Yaogan satellites have been launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center (TSLC) in Shanxi province, the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center (JSLC) in Inner Mongolia, Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC) in Sichuan province and the Wenchang Space Launch Site (WSLS) in Hainan province.[6]

Although individual Yaogan satellites are often referred to by their number (e.g. Yaogan-18), Chinese military reconnaissance satellites are typically categorized by their military Jianbing designation. Jianbing (尖兵) translates to "point soldier", "vanguard", or "pioneer" and entered use in satellite designations with China's first series of reconnaissance satellites, FSW-0, as the Jianbing-1 series. The first Yaogan satellite, Yaogan 1, is one of three Jianbing-5 (JB-5) series satellites following the final FSW-3 satellites of the Jianbing-4 (JB-4) series. Because Jianbing designations are secret and only Yaogan numbers are officially used, the Jianbing designations for later classes still remains unknown to the public.

Classes

[edit]

Synthetic-aperture radar

[edit]

Chinese synthetic-aperture radar (SAR, Chinese: 合成孔径雷达; pinyin: héchéng kǒngjìng léidá) sensor development began in the late 1970s under the Electronic Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) resulting in the testing of the first airborne X-band mono-polarization SAR collection in 1981. By 1994, CAS had introduced its first operational, real-time airborne SAR system to monitor flooding and transmit collected data to ground stations.[7] Preliminary research and development of China's first-generation, space-based SAR system began sometime in the 1980s with development beginning in full in 1991. High-resolution, space-based SAR collection has been ambitiously pursued by the PLA for its potential contributions to all-weather targeting of naval forces in the Taiwan Strait.[7]

Jianbing-5 series satellites (abbreviated "JB-5") are China's first space-based SAR satellites and the first satellites in the Yaogan program. The development and production of the Jianbing-5 series of satellites have been entirely funded by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) as the ability to penetrate the seemingly constant cloud cover present in the southern provinces of Tibet, Sichuan, Yunnan, Guangxi, Guandgong, and Hainan challenges traditional optical collection in those regions.[8] The PLA also believes that in a potential war SAR collection capabilities will be vital to information dominance by mapping terrain, identifying targets through cloud cover, rain, fog, and dust, and potentially monitoring enemy submarines in shallow waters or targets in subterranean facilities.[7] In May 1995, the finalized designs were approved and development began in earnest with the approval of the State Science & Technology Committee (SSTC) and Commission for Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense (COSTIND).[7] The CAS Institute of Electronics built the SAR instruments onboard Jianbing-5 satellites, the craft itself designed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) which also develops the Long March 4B launch vehicle. Other developers involved in the project are the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST or 5th Space Academy) 501st and 504th Institutes, the China Electronics Technology Group's (CETC) Nanjing Research Institute of Electronic Technology (known also as the 14th Institute), the Southwest Institute of Electronic Equipment (SWIEE or 29th Institute), and the Beijing University of Aeronautics & Astronautics (BUAA).[7] SAST is also the developer of the Feng Yun series of weather satellites.[7]

Jianbing-5 satellites are built by SAST and launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center (TSLC) and provide military analysts synthetic-radar imagery purportedly at a spatial resolution as sharp as 5 meters over the L-band (1–2 GHz).[9] JB-5 satellites have been confirmed to have an electronic motor-powered solar panel which can be expanded and contracted by the ground control station. Jianbing-5 class satellites have a reported mass of 2,700 kilograms, orbital inclination of approximately 97° in Sun-synchronous orbit, and with two operational satellites enjoys a twice daily revisit rate at a 45° viewing angle.[8][10] Between April 2006 and August 2010, China launched three Jianbing-5 SAR satellites, the last two of which remain in operation from TSLC. Yaogan 1, launched in April 2006, reportedly broke up around 4 February 2010 almost four years after its launch.[9] Due to the small number of pieces and low orbital speeds, the breakup was likely due to an internal explosion, not a high-speed collision.[11]

Yaogan 29, launched in November 2015 into a similar orbit, appears to be the modernized successor to the Jianbing-5 series of SAR satellites.[8]

The Jianbing-7 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-7", are Chinese military radar reconnaissance satellites built by SAST with an orbital period of 97 minutes and a side-looking radar system designed by the CAS's Institute of Electronics. As of July 2022, China has launched four Jianbing-7 radar satellites with the first launched in April 2009 and the latest in November 2014 with a mass of 1,200 kilograms (2,600 pounds) from TSLC.[10][12] The third satellite of the Jianbing-7 class, launched in October 2013, had its orbit lowered from April to July 2020 and consequently underwent an uncontrolled decay reentering the atmosphere in 2021.[13]

Although the Jianbing designation is still unknown for latest class of SAR reconnaissance satellites, China has launched three satellites of a modernized successor class to the Jianbing-5 and Jianbing-7 classes of SAR reconnaissance satellites. This class uses the same orbit as the Jianbing-5 class but likely has a different design according to published illustrations.[14] The second satellite of this class, Yaogan 33, failed to reach orbit in May 2019. Its likely replacement, Yaogan 33R, was launched a year and a half later but used different launch site (Jiuquan instead of Taiyuan) and into a higher orbit (682 km × 686 km).[14]

Electro-optical

[edit]

The Jianbing-6 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-6", provides the Chinese military optical imaging capabilities to complement the Jianbing-5 class's SAR reconnaissance capabilities.[15] It has been reported that satellites of the Jianbing-6 class have a resolution of 0.8 meters.[9] Jianbing-6 satellites were developed by CAST based on the CAST2000 satellites bus originally developed by the China SpaceSat Company Ltd. Jianbing-6 satellites image the Earth with a spatial resolution of approximately 1.5 meters and transmit them via X-band receiving telemetry, tracking, and command signals over the S-band. As of July 2022, China individually launched six Yaogan satellites of the Jianbing-6 class into low Earth orbit (LEO) with the first satellite launched in May 2006 and the latest in May 2016.[10] The Bolivarian Agency for Space Activities signed a US$140 million deal with China Great Wall Industries Co. Ltd. to launch the Venezuelan Remote-Sensing Satellite 1 (VRSS-1) in May 2011 marking China's first export of a reconnaissance satellite. VRSS-1 was based on the design of Jianbing-6 satellites and was launched on 29 September 2012 from JSLC.[10]

The Jianbing-9 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-9" provides the Chinese military with optical imaging capabilities, likely as a successor to the Jianbing-6 class, though it orbits at a much higher altitude of 1,200 km, indicating that satellites of this class are lower-resolution mapping and area surveillance satellites.[10][16][17] The optical payload of Yaogan satellites in the Jianbing-9 class was developed by the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics, and Physics.[17][18] China has launched five individual Yaogan satellites of the Jianbing-9 class with the first launched in December 2009 and the latest in August 2015 from TSLC.[10]

The Jianbing-10 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-10" provides the Chinese military with optical imaging capabilities.[19] Believed to also be based on the CAST2000 satellite bus, like those of the Jianbing-6 class, three Jianbing-10-class satellites built by CAST and carrying an optical imaging system from the Xian Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics have been individually launched with the first launched in December 2008 and the reported last of the class in September 2014 from TSLC.[19][20]

The Jianbing-11 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-11" provides the Chinese military with optical imaging capabilities.[21] As of May 2022, China has launched two individually launched Yaogan satellites of the Jianbing-11 class with the first launched in May 2012 and the latest in November 2015.[21]

The Jianbing-12 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-12", are military optical reconnaissance satellites.[22]

Launch of Yaogan-36 on 27 November 2022

Electronic intelligence

[edit]

In response to Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui's visit to the United States in 1995, the PRC initiated the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis conducting high-profile missile tests, amphibious landing drills, and troop staging in Fujian Province, across the strait from the island of Taiwan.[23] The United States government responded to the PRC's escalation by deploying the largest American show of force since the Vietnam War including sending two American carrier battle groups which effectively forced the PRC to deescalate.[24][25][26][27] Since then, the PLA has committed to design and field advanced anti-ship missile systems including the Dong Feng 21 and has deployed nearly sixty maritime surveillance satellites using electronic intelligence (ELINT) to locate, identify, and track adversarial vessels to support targeting.[28][29]

The Jianbing-8 class of Yaogan satellites, with military designations beginning with "JB-8", consist of one primary satellite and two sub-satellites launched in triplets. These satellites reportedly perform an ocean or naval surveillance mission similar to those of the United States' Naval Ocean Surveillance System (NOSS or PARCAE) despite the Chinese state-media's insistence they were designed to "conduct electromagnetic environmental monitoring and related technology tests".[29][30] The triplet groups likely fly in a loose formation to locate radio emitters using the difference in time of arrival of radio signals at the different satellites. Jianbing-8 satellites are based on the CAST2000 satellites bus and have a mass of 200 kilograms (440 pounds) and an orbital period of 107.10 minutes in LEO.[9][31][32] As of May 2022, there have been nine launches of Jianbing-8 triplets (twenty-seven total satellites) from JSLC with the first triplet launching in March 2010 and the latest in March 2021.

The CX-5 or Chuangxin-5 (simplified Chinese: 创新; traditional Chinese: 創新; pinyin: Chuàngxīn; lit. 'Innovation') class of satellites, the only known Yaogan satellites to have been launched at Xichang SLC, are still largely shrouded in secrecy and their purpose is only speculated to be ELINT by nature of their triplet launches, similar to satellites of the Jianbing-8 class.

Satellites

[edit]
Name Military
designation 		Launch Function Orbit Orbital Apsis Inclination SCN COSPARID Contractor Launcher Launch site Status
Yaogan 1 JB-5-1 26 April 2006 SAR SSO 635 km × 637 km 97.9° 29092 2006-015A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Decayed
Yaogan 2 JB-6-1 25 May 2007 EO SSO 639 km × 663 km 97.9° 31490 2007-019A CAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 3 JB-5-2 11 November 2007 SAR SSO 635 km × 637 km 97.8° 32289 2007-055A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 4 JB-6-2 1 December 2008 EO SSO 642 km × 660 km 97.9° 33446 2008-061A CAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 5 JB-10-1 15 December 2008 EO SSO 494 km × 501 km 97.3° 33456 2008-064A CAST Long March 4B TSLC Decayed
Yaogan 6 JB-7-1 22 April 2009 SAR SSO 518 km × 519 km 97.6° 34839 2009-021A SAST Long March 2C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 7 JB-6-3 9 December 2009 EO SSO 630 km × 666 km 97.8° 36110 2009-069A CAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 8 JB-9-1 15 December 2009 EO SSO 1200 km × 1212 km 100.5° 36121 2009-072A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 9A JB-8-1A 5 March 2010 ELINT LEO 781.2 km × 1412.8 km 63.4° 36413 2010-009A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 9B JB-8-1B LEO 781.2 km × 1412.6 km 63.4° 36414 2010-009B Operational
Yaogan 9C JB-8-1C LEO 780.6 km × 1413.2 km 63.4° 36415 2010-009C Operational
Yaogan 10 JB-5-3 9 August 2010 SAR SSO 629 km × 627 km 97.8° 36834 2010-038A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 11 JB-6-4 22 September 2010 EO SSO 670 km × 625 km 98.0° 37165 2010-047A CAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 12 JB-10-2 9 November 2011 EO SSO 479 km × 495 km 97.3° 37875 2011-066B CAST Long March 4B TSLC Operational
Yaogan 13 JB-7-2 29 November 2011 SAR SSO 502 km × 504 km 97.4° 37941 2011-072A SAST Long March 2C TSLC Decayed
Yaogan 14 JB-11-1 10 May 2012 EO SSO 471 km × 474 km 97.3° 38257 2012-021A CAST Long March 4B TSLC Operational
Yaogan 15 JB-9-2 29 May 2012 EO SSO 1198 km × 1204 km 100.2° 38354 2012-029A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 16A JB-8-2A 25 November 2012 ELINT LEO 855.0 km × 1338.9 Km 63.4° 39011 2012-066A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 16B JB-8-2B LEO 855.1 km × 1338.9 km 63.4° 39012 2012-066B Operational
Yaogan 16C JB-8-2C LEO 855.1 km × 1338.9 km 63.4° 39013 2012-066C Operational
Yaogan 17A JB-8-3A 1 September 2013 ELINT LEO 867.2 km × 1326.8 km 63.4° 39239 2013-046A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 17B JB-8-3B LEO 867.3 km × 1326.9 km 63.4° 39240 2013-046B Operational
Yaogan 17C JB-8-3C LEO 866.6 km × 63.4 km 63.4° 39241 2013-046C Operational
Yaogan 18 JB-7-3 29 October 2013 SAR SSO 509 km × 514 km 97.5° 39363 2013-059A SAST Long March 2C TSLC Decayed
Yaogan 19 JB-9-3 20 November 2013 EO SSO 1119 km × 1204 km 100.4° 39410 2013-065A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 20A JB-8-4A 9 August 2014 ELINT LEO 893.5 km × 1300.5 km 63.4° 40109 2014-047A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 20B JB-8-4B LEO 893.5 km × 1300.5 km 63.4° 40110 2014-047B Operational
Yaogan 20C JB-8-4C LEO 893.4 km × 1300.6 km 63.4° 40111 2014-047C Operational
Yaogan 21 JB-10-3 8 September 2014 EO SSO 481 km × 492 km 97.4° 40143 2014-053A CAST Long March 4B TSLC Operational
Yaogan 22 JB-9-4 20 October 2014 EO SSO 1198 km × 1207 km 100.3° 40275 2014-063A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 23 JB-7-4 14 November 2014 SAR SSO 511 km × 513 km 97.3° 40305 014-071A SAST Long March 2C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 24 JB 6-5 20 November 2014 EO SSO 629 km × 654 km 97.9° 40310 2014-072A CAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 25A JB-8-5A 10 December 2014 ELINT LEO 912.0 km × 1282.0 km 63.4° 40338 2014-080A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 25B JB-8-5B LEO 912.0 km × 1282.0 km 63.4° 40339 2014-080B Operational
Yaogan 25C JB-8-5C LEO 912.0 km × 1282.1 km 63.4° 40340 2014-080C Operational
Yaogan 26 JB-12-1 27 December 2014 EO SSO 482 km × 488 km 97.4° 40362 2014-088A CAST Long March 4B TSLC Operational
Yaogan 27 JB-9-5 27 August 2015 EO SSO 1201 km × 1214 km 100.4° 40878 2015-040A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 28 JB-11-2 8 November 2015 EO SSO 476 km × 490 km 97.3° 41026 2015-064A CAST Long March 4B TSLC Operational
Yaogan 29 JB-?-1 26 November 2015 SAR SSO 635 km × 636 km 97.9° 41038 2015-069A SAST Long March 4C TSLC Operational
Yaogan 30 JB-6-6 15 May 2016 EO SSO 634 km × 664 km 98.0° 41473 2016-029A CAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-1A CX-5 29 September 2017 ELINT LEO 600.9 km × 603.7 km 35.0° 42945 2017-058A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-1B CX-5 LEO 599.8 km × 604.8 km 35.0° 42946 2017-058B Operational
Yaogan 30-1C CX-5 LEO 598.0 km × 606.4 km 35.0° 42947 2017-058C Operational
Yaogan 30-2A CX-5 24 November 2017 ELINT LEO 600.3 km × 604.2 km 35.0° 43028 2017-075A IAMCAS Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-2B CX-5 LEO 598.9 km × 605.6 km 35.0° 43029 2017-075B Operational
Yaogan 30-2C CX-5 LEO 599.8 km × 604.9 km 35.0° 43030 2017-075C Operational
Yaogan 30-3A CX-5 25 December 2017 ELINT LEO 599.4 km × 605.1 km 35.0° 43081 2017-085A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-3B CX-5 LEO 598.2 km × 606.0 km 35.0° 43082 2017-085B Operational
Yaogan 30-3C CX-5 LEO 598.6 km × 605.9 km 35.0° 43083 2017-085C Operational
Yaogan 30-4A CX-5 25 January 2018 ELINT LEO 597.7 km × 606.9 km 35.0° 43170 2018-011A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-4B CX-5 LEO 600.3 km × 604.3 km 35.0° 43171 2018-011B Operational
Yaogan 30-4C CX-5 LEO 600.3 km × 604.3 km 35.0° 43172 2018-011C Operational
Yaogan 30-5A CX-5 25 July 2019 ELINT LEO 598.7 km × 606.0 km 35.0° 44449 2019-045A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-5B CX-5 LEO 595.8 km × 608.7 km 35.0° 44450 2019-045B Operational
Yaogan 30-5C CX-5 LEO 601.5 km × 603.1 km 35.0° 44451 2019-045C Operational
Yaogan 30-6A CX-5 24 March 2020 ELINT LEO 598.7 km × 605.7 km 35.0° 45460 2020-021A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-6B CX-5 LEO 600.0 km × 604.6 35.0° 45461 2020-021B Operational
Yaogan 30-6C CX-5 LEO 601.0 km × 603.5 km 35.0° 45462 2020-021C Operational
Yaogan 30-7A CX-5 26 October 2020 ELINT LEO 602.0 km × 602.6 km 35.0° 46807 2020-076A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-7B CX-5 LEO 600.2 km × 604.3 km 35.0° 46808 2020-076B Operational
Yaogan 30-7C CX-5 LEO 597.9 km × 606.6 km 35.0° 46809 2020-076C Operational
Yaogan 30-8A CX-5 6 May 2021 ELINT LEO 599.1 km × 605.5 km 35.0° 48423 2021-039A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-8B CX-5 LEO 598.9 km × 605.7 km 35.0° 48424 2021-039B Operational
Yaogan 30-8C CX-5 LEO 600.8 km × 603.8 km 35.0° 48425 2021-039C Operational
Yaogan 30-9A CX-5 18 June 2021 ELINT LEO 598.9 km × 605.6 km 35.0° 48860 2021-055A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-9B CX-5 LEO 599.0 km × 605.5 km 35.0° 48861 2021-055B Operational
Yaogan 30-9C CX-5 LEO 598.6 km × 605.9 km 35.0° 48863 2021-055D Operational
Yaogan 30-10A CX-5 19 July 2021 ELINT LEO 598.7 km × 606.0 km 35.0° 49026 2021-065A IAMCAS Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 30-10B CX-5 LEO 591.8 km × 604.1 km 35.0° 49027 2021-065B Operational
Yaogan 30-10C CX-5 LEO 601.7 km × 603.0 km 35.0° 49028 2021-065C Operational
Yaogan 31A JB-8 6A 10 April 2018 ELINT LEO 980.4 km × 1213.5 km 63.4° 43275 2018-034A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 31B JB-8 6B LEO 980.4 km × 1213.5 km 63.4° 43276 2018-034B Operational
Yaogan 31C JB-8 6C LEO 980.4 km × 1213.5 km 63.4° 43277 2018-034C Operational
Yaogan 31D JB-8 6D 29 January 2021 ELINT LEO 1054.6 km × 1139.3 km 63.4° 47532 2021-007A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 31E JB-8 6E LEO 1054.4 km × 1139.6 km 63.4° 47533 2021-007B Operational
Yaogan 31F JB-8 6F LEO 1058.4 km × 1142.6 km 63.4° 47536 2021-007C Operational
Yaogan 31G JB-8 6G 24 February 2021 ELINT LEO 1053.9 km × 1140.1 km 63.4° 47691 2021-014A CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 31H JB-8 6H LEO 1063.3 km 63.4° 47692 2021-014B Operational
Yaogan 31J JB-8 6J LEO 1053.7 km × 1140.2 km 63.4° 47695 2021-014C Operational
Yaogan 31K JB-8 6K 13 March 2021 ELINT LEO 1063.2 km × 1140.9 km 63.4° 47855 2021-020B CAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 31L JB-8 6L LEO 1063.2 km × 1140.9 km 63.4° 47855 2021-020C Operational
Yaogan 31M JB-8 6M LEO 1055.5 km × 1138.4 km 63.4° 47857 2021-020D Operational
Yaogan 32A Unknown 9 October 2018 EO SSO 700.2 km × 702.3 km 98.1° 43642 2018-077A CAST Long March 2C/YZ-1S JSLC Operational
Yaogan 32B Unknown SSO 700.3 km × 702.1 km 98.1° 43643 2018-077B Operational
Yaogan 32-2A Unknown 3 November 2021 SIGINT SSO 700.6 km × 702.8 km 98.1° 49383 2021-099A Unknown Long March 2C/YZ-1S JSLC Operational
Yaogan 32-2B Unknown SSO 700.8 km × 702.7 km 98.1° 49384 2021-099B Operational
Yaogan 33 JB-?-2 22 May 2019 SAR (Launch Failure) SAST Long March 4C TSLC Failed
Yaogan 33R JB-?-3 27 December 2020 SAR SSO 683 km × 686 km 98.3° 47302 2020-103A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 33-02 Unknown 2 September 2022 SAR SSO 688 km × 680 km 98.18° 53698 2022-106A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 33-03 Unknown 6 September 2023 SAR SSO 703.2km×701.9km 98.2° 57797 2023-136A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 33-04 Unknown 26 September 2023 SAR SSO 695.6km×692.3km 98.1° 57958 2023-149A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 34 Unknown 30 April 2021 EO LEO 1083 km × 1105 km 63.4° 48340 2021-037A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 34-2 Unknown 17 March 2022 EO LEO 1083 km × 1105 km 63.38° 52084 2022-027A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 34-3 Unknown 15 November 2022 Unknown LEO 1,080.2 km × 1,103.6 km 63.4° 54249 2022-154A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 34-4 Unknown 31 March 2023 Unknown LEO 1088.4 km × 105.3 km 63.4° 56157 2023-048A SAST Long March 4C JSLC Operational
Yaogan 35A Unknown 6 November 2021 Unknown LEO 501.2 km × 506.4 km 35.0° 49390 2021-101A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 35B Unknown LEO 499.8 km × 507.8 km 35.0° 49391 2021-101B Operational
Yaogan 35C Unknown LEO 459.3 km × 463.5 km 35.0° 49392 2021-101C Operational
Yaogan 35 02-A Unknown 23 June 2022 ELINT LEO 499 km × 508 km 35.0° 52907 2022-068A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 35 02-B Unknown LEO 498 km × 509 km 35.0° 52908 2022-068B Operational
Yaogan 35 02-C Unknown LEO 496 km × 506 km 35.0° 52909 2022-068C Operational
Yaogan 35 03-A Unknown 29 July 2022 ELINT LEO 499 km × 508.6 km 35.0° 53316 2022-088A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 35 03-B Unknown LEO 496.6 km × 511.2 km 35.0° 53317 2022-088B Operational
Yaogan 35 03-C Unknown LEO 497.5 km × 510.4 km 35.0° 53318 2022-088C Operational
Yaogan 35 04-A Unknown 19 August 2022 ELINT LEO 491 km × 502 km 35.0° 53522 2022-100A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 35 04-B Unknown LEO 490 km × 502 km 35.0° 53523 2022-100B Operational
Yaogan 35 04-C Unknown LEO 488 km × 500 km 35.0° 53524 2022-100C Operational
Yaogan 35 05-A Unknown 6 September 2022 ELINT LEO 502 km × 491 km 35.0° 53760 2022-109A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 35 05-B Unknown LEO 501 km × 488 km 35.0° 53761 2022-109B Operational
Yaogan 35 05-C Unknown LEO 501 km × 489 km 35.0° 53762 2022-109C Operational
Yaogan 36A Unknown 26 September 2022 Unknown LEO 499 km × 486 km 35.0° 53943 2022-120A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 36B Unknown LEO 499 km × 488 km 35.0° 53946 2022-120B Operational
Yaogan 36C Unknown LEO 498 km × 485 km 35.0° 53947 2022-120C Operational
Yaogan 36 02-A Unknown 14 October 2022 ELINT LEO 499 km × 487 km 35.0° 54042 2022-133A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 36 02-B Unknown LEO 498 km × 486 km 35.0° 54043 2022-133B Operational
Yaogan 36 02-C Unknown LEO 498 km × 485 km 35.0° 54044 2022-133C Operational
Yaogan 36 03-A Unknown 27 November 2022 ELINT LEO 501.3 km 511.2 km 35.0° 54372 2022-160A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 36 03-B Unknown LEO 493.6 km × 505.5 km 35.0° 54373 2022-160B Operational
Yaogan 36 03-C Unknown LEO 500.9 km 509.7 km 35.0° 54374 2022-160C Operational
Yaogan 36 04-A Unknown 14 December 2022 ELINT LEO 500.3 km × 511.2 km 35.0° 54746 2022-171A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 36 04-B Unknown LEO 495.8 km × 507.0 km 35.0° 54747 2022-171B Operational
Yaogan 36 04-C Unknown LEO 502.2 km × 510.3 km 35.0° 54748 2022-171C Operational
Yaogan 36 05-A Unknown 26 July 2023 ELINT LEO 508.7 km × 498.6 km 35.0° 57452 2023-106A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 36 05-B Unknown LEO 508.2 km × 498.0 km 35.0° 57454 2023-106C Operational
Yaogan 36 05-C Unknown LEO 507.2 km × 495.0 km 35.0° 57456 2023-106E Operational
Yaogan 37 Unknown 13 January 2023 Unknown LEO 518.6 km × 526.3 km 43.2° 55244 2023-006C SAST Long March 2D JSLC Operational
Yaogan 39-01A Unknown 31 August 2023 ELINT LEO 496.4km×510.3km 35.0 ° 57727 2023-130A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 39-01B Unknown LEO 496.5km×508.8km 35.0 ° 57728 2023-130B Operational
Yaogan 39-01C Unknown LEO 491.2km×512.4km 35.0 ° 57731 2023-130E Operational
Yaogan 39-02A Unknown 17 September 2023 ELINT LEO 500km×491km 35.0° 57886 2023-145A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 39-02B Unknown LEO 497km×485km 35.0° 57887 2023-145B Operational
Yaogan 39-02C Unknown LEO 496km×483km 35.0° 57888 2023-145C Operational
Yaogan 39-03A Unknown 5 October 2023 ELINT LEO 501km×491km 35.0° 57986 2023-152A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 39-03B Unknown LEO 502km×489km 35.0° 57987 2023-152B Operational
Yaogan 39-03C Unknown LEO 501km×490km 35.0° 57988 2023-152C Operational
Yaogan 39-04A Unknown 23 October 2023 ELINT LEO 502km×491km 35.0° 58141 2023-163A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 39-04B Unknown LEO 502km×489km 35.0° 58143 2023-163C Operational
Yaogan 39-04C Unknown LEO 501km×489km 35.0° 58145 2023-163E Operational
Yaogan 39-05A Unknown 10 December 2023 ELINT LEO 502km×491km 35.0° 58557 2023-194A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 39-05B Unknown LEO 500km×489km 35.0° 58558 2023-194B Operational
Yaogan 39-05C Unknown LEO 501km×489km 35.0° 58559 2023-194C Operational
Yaogan 40-01A Unknown 10 September 2023 Unknown LEO 803.1km×818.1km 86.0° 57830 2023-139A CAST Long March 6A TSLC Operational
Yaogan 40-01B Unknown LEO 801.9km×821.2km 86.0° 57832 2023-139C Operational
Yaogan 40-01C Unknown LEO 774.9km×813.2km 86.0° 57833 2023-139D Operational
Yaogan 40-02A Unknown 11 May 2025 Unknown LEO CAST Long March 6A TSLC Operational
Yaogan 40-02B Unknown LEO Operational
Yaogan 40-02C Unknown LEO Operational
Yaogan 40-03A Unknown 6 September 2025 Unknown LEO CAST Long March 6A TSLC Operational
Yaogan 40-03B Unknown LEO Operational
Yaogan 40-03C Unknown LEO Operational
Yaogan 41 Unknown 15 December 2023 EO GSO 35839 km × 35732 km 4.97° 58582 2023-197A CAST Long March 5 WSLS Operational
Yaogan 42-01 Unknown 2 April 2024 Unknown LEO 502km×491km 35.0° 59395 2024-063A SAST Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 42-02 Unknown 20 April 2024 Unknown LEO 502km×490km 35.0° 59557 2024-075A SAST Long March 2D XSLC Operational
Yaogan 43-01A Unknown 16 August 2024 Unknown LEO 500km×493km 35.0° 60458 2024-148A CAST
SAST
IAMCAS
et al. 		Long March 4B XSLC Operational
Yaogan 43-01B Unknown LEO 501km×492km 35.01° 60459 2024-148B Operational
Yaogan 43-01C Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60460 2024-148C Operational
Yaogan 43-01D Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60461 2024-148D Operational
Yaogan 43-01E Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60462 2024-148E Operational
Yaogan 43-01F Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60463 2024-148F Operational
Yaogan 43-01G Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60464 2024-148G Operational
Yaogan 43-01H Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60465 2024-148H Operational
Yaogan 43-01J Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60466 2024-148J Operational
Yaogan 43-02A Unknown 3 September 2024 Unknown LEO 502km×490km (median) 35.0° 60945 2024-156A - SAST
IAMCAS
et al. 		Long March 4B XSLC Operational
Yaogan 43-02B Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60946 2024-156B Operational
Yaogan 43-02C Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60947 2024-156C Operational
Yaogan 43-02D Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60948 2024-156D Operational
Yaogan 43-02E Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60949 2024-156E Operational
Yaogan 43-02F Unknown LEO 500km×494km 35.01° 60950 2024-156F Operational
Yaogan 43-03A Unknown 23 October 2024[33] ELINT LEO 501km×493km 35.0° 61617 2024-190A CAST
SAST 		Long March 2C XSLC Operational
Yaogan 43-03B Unknown LEO 502km×490km 35.0° 61618 2024-190B Operational
Yaogan 43-03C Unknown LEO 501km×491km 35.0° 61619 2024-190C Operational
Yaogan 45 Unknown 9 September 2025 Unknown MEO 203km×7468km 20.0° 65563 2025-201M SAST Long March 7A WSLS Operational
Yaogan 46 Unknown 3 November 2025 Unknown MEO TBA Long March 7A WSLS Operational
Table data sourced from previously cited references, "CalSky". calsky.com. CalSky. Retrieved 9 November 2016. and "Real Time Satellite Tracking". n2yo.com. N2YO. Retrieved 9 November 2016."Yaogan 30-01, ..., 30-07 (CX 5)". Gunter's Space Page. 30 May 2020. Retrieved 14 October 2020.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Yaogan

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from Grokipedia
Yaogan (Chinese: 遥感; : Yáogǎn) is a series of satellites launched by the since 2006, officially designated for civilian applications including land surveys, crop yield estimation, disaster monitoring, and scientific experiments. However, orbital parameters, sensor capabilities, and deployment patterns indicate primary military utility for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), encompassing electro-optical imaging, (SAR) mapping, and electronic intelligence (ELINT) collection to support the (PLA). The program has expanded rapidly, with over 45 satellites or groups deployed by 2025, often in trios for stereoscopic or formation-flying operations, launched via Long March rockets from sites including Jiuquan, Taiyuan, and Xichang. Subseries such as Yaogan-30 focus on maritime surveillance via SAR, while others like Yaogan-41 enable geosynchronous optical monitoring, enhancing China's ability to track naval assets and regional threats in real time. This buildup contributes to asymmetric space advantages, including persistent coverage over the Indo-Pacific, amid opaque state reporting that blends dual-use technologies to obscure strategic intent. Notable advancements include high-resolution imaging potentially exceeding 0.8 meters and integration with ground systems for rapid , positioning Yaogan as a cornerstone of PLA space-based warfare doctrines despite limited transparency on performance metrics. International analyses highlight risks of escalation from such capabilities, including anti-satellite testing implications, though China's official narrative emphasizes peaceful utilization aligned with national development goals.

History and Development

Inception and Early Launches (2006–2010)

The Yaogan satellite series originated as China's inaugural dedicated effort to deploy a constellation of platforms under the cover of civilian missions. The inaugural launch occurred on April 27, 2006, when Yaogan-1 (also designated Jianbing-5 or JB-5) was placed into a of approximately 630 km altitude and 97.8° inclination using a Long March 4B rocket from the . Equipped with (SAR) for high-resolution, all-weather imaging, the satellite was officially tasked with conducting scientific experiments, surveying land resources, estimating crop yields, and aiding disaster relief efforts. However, assessments by U.S. defense analysts classify Yaogan-1 as China's first operational SAR , primarily intended to gather on and mobile , addressing prior limitations in China's space-based imaging capabilities. Early missions rapidly diversified payload types to build complementary intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) functions, including electronic intelligence (ELINT) collection and electro-optical (EO) imaging. Yaogan-2 launched on November 6, 2006, via 4C from , operating in a similar and assessed as an ELINT platform for intercepting and communication signals from naval and ground targets. Yaogan-3 followed on May 27, 2007, again with 4B from , featuring SAR for continued imaging refinement. By December 2008, Yaogan-5 introduced EO capabilities for daylight visible-light photography, launched on 4B to a 630 km , enabling higher-resolution target identification than SAR alone. These initial deployments demonstrated China's intent to integrate multiple sensor modalities, with launches averaging one to two per year, leveraging existing variants for cost-effective access to space. The period culminated in more complex configurations by 2009–2010, reflecting maturing orbital maneuvering and formation-flying technologies. Yaogan-6 (February 23, 2009) and Yaogan-4 (January 18, 2008) focused on ELINT in mid-inclination for regional , while Yaogan-7 (July 5, 2009) added EO imaging. A milestone came with Yaogan-9, a triplet launched March 5, 2010, on Long March 4C from into a 1,100 km for stereoscopic EO mapping, allowing three-dimensional terrain reconstruction for military planning. Yaogan-10 (August 11, 2010) returned to SAR with enhanced resolution. Overall, the 2006–2010 phase saw 10 satellites orbited, establishing a foundational network for persistent monitoring, though operational lifespans varied, with Yaogan-1 decaying in early 2010 after debris generation. U.S. Department of Defense reports highlight this buildup as part of China's broader military modernization, prioritizing space-based assets over purely terrestrial reconnaissance.
SatelliteLaunch DateVehicle/SitePrimary CapabilityOrbit Notes
Yaogan-1April 27, 2006 4B/SAR imaging630 km, 97.8° SSO
Yaogan-2November 6, 2006 4C/ELINTPolar, ~630 km
Yaogan-3May 27, 2007 4B/SAR imagingSSO, ~630 km
Yaogan-4January 18, 2008/ELINTMid-inclination
Yaogan-5December 15, 2008 4B/EO imaging630 km SSO
Yaogan-6February 23, 2009 4C/ELINTPolar
Yaogan-7July 5, 2009/EO imagingSSO
Yaogan-8December 15, 2009 4C/SAR imagingSSO
Yaogan-9 (triplet)March 5, 2010 4C/EO stereo imaging1,100 km, 63°
Yaogan-10August 11, 2010 4C/SAR imaging~610 km, 98°

Expansion and Technological Maturation (2011–2020)

From 2011 to 2020, the Yaogan program expanded markedly, with China executing over 25 launches that deployed dozens of satellites, transitioning from sporadic missions to routine deployments that bolstered the constellation's scale and diversity. This period saw the introduction of multi-satellite groupings, particularly triplets for electronic intelligence (ELINT) and electromagnetic environment detection, such as Yaogan-16 launched on November 25, 2011, via Long March 4C from Jiuquan, mimicking U.S. NOSS configurations for ocean surveillance. Subsequent ELINT missions, including Yaogan-17 in 2013 and Yaogan-20 in 2014, further populated inclined orbits to enhance geolocation of surface emitters. Technological maturation manifested in refined sensor payloads and orbital architectures, enabling persistent monitoring. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites like Yaogan-13, launched November 29, 2011, from on a , provided all-weather for resource assessment and reconnaissance. Electro-optical (EO) systems advanced in the Yaogan-30 series, initiated May 15, 2016, with launches from and using and 2C vehicles, focusing on naval target detection including U.S. aircraft carriers; by October 2019, at least 15 Yaogan-30 satellites achieved near-continuous global coverage. These incorporated automated target recognition for ship identification, supporting anti-ship ballistic and guidance. Launch cadence intensified mid-decade, with six missions in 2014 alone utilizing varied vehicles like 4B and 4C from and , deploying both single and triplet payloads in sun-synchronous orbits for electro-optical and SAR imaging. By 2017–2020, Yaogan-30 extensions and Yaogan-31/32 groups emphasized electromagnetic surveys, with multiple triplet launches from , demonstrating improved reliability and integration for intelligence, surveillance, and (ISR) applications. This maturation reduced revisit intervals and enhanced resolution, though exact sensor specifications remain classified, with assessments derived from orbital analysis and mission profiles.

Recent Deployments and Advancements (2021–Present)

Since 2021, China has accelerated deployments in the Yaogan series, launching multiple groups of satellites assessed as reconnaissance platforms for electro-optical, radar, and signals intelligence missions, despite official designations for civilian remote sensing applications such as land surveying and disaster monitoring. In November 2021, three Yaogan-35 satellites were deployed into low Earth orbit using a Long March 2D rocket from Xichang, forming a triplet configuration likely for electronic intelligence collection through coordinated orbital positioning. Subsequent Yaogan-36 missions in 2022 and 2023 introduced paired or triplet satellites with varied designs, including components built by DFH Satellite Co., orbiting at approximately 500 km altitude to enhance real-time surveillance capabilities. In 2023, the Yaogan-39 group saw its fifth triplet launch in December via from , continuing the pattern of distributed aperture systems for improved electronic reconnaissance coverage. By 2024, the program advanced with the Yaogan-43 series, deploying batches including nine in August using a Long March 4B from , signaling expanded constellation density for persistent monitoring. These developments reflect refinements in satellite clustering and integration, enabling better resolution and revisit times over target areas.
Launch DateSatellite GroupNumber of SatellitesLaunch VehicleOrbit/Notes
September 7, 2025Yaogan-40 (third trio)3Long March 4C; with enhanced polar coverage
September 9, 2025Yaogan-451Long March 7A; strategic surveillance from higher altitude
The 2025 launches of Yaogan-40 into polar orbits and Yaogan-45 into mark notable advancements, providing global access and reduced vulnerability compared to traditional assets, while incorporating potential upgrades in and secure communications tested in prior Yaogan iterations. Analysts note these evolutions support the People's Liberation Army's growing emphasis on space-based , , and amid regional tensions.

Technical Specifications

Orbital Parameters and Configurations

The Yaogan satellite series primarily operates in (LEO), with typical altitudes between 480 and 700 km for missions, enabling high-resolution imaging and signals collection. Some electronic (ELINT) variants, such as early Yaogan-3 triads, deploy at approximately 1200 km altitude to facilitate wide-area surveillance. Orbital inclinations vary widely to support diverse mission profiles: sun-synchronous orbits (SSO) near 97–98° are common for electro-optical and (SAR) satellites to ensure consistent solar illumination, while lower inclinations like 35°, 43°, or 63.4° suit naval or regional monitoring. For instance, Yaogan-1, launched in , entered a 607 × 621 km orbit at 98.7° inclination. Satellite configurations often involve formations rather than isolated units, particularly for ELINT tasks requiring geolocation via time-difference-of-arrival methods. , such as those in the Yaogan-9/16/17 series, are launched into near-circular SSO at around 630 km and 98° inclination, with satellites phased approximately 120° apart in the same for continuous coverage and accuracy. Similar setups appear in Yaogan-35 (2021), placed in a of nearly 600 km at polar inclination. Single or paired deployments, like Yaogan-37 (2023) at 515 km and 43.2° inclination, support targeted .
Satellite ExampleAltitude (km)Inclination (°)ConfigurationLaunch Year
Yaogan-1607 × 62198.7Single2006
Yaogan-1164098.4Single2010
Yaogan-28493–49797.3Single2018
Yaogan-3 series~120063.4Triad (120° phase)2008–2010
Yaogan-9 series~63098Triad2010–2018
These parameters derive from post-launch tracking data, as official disclosures remain limited; variations reflect adaptations for payload types, with SSO prioritizing revisit frequency for and dispersed formations enhancing signals intelligence persistence.

Payload Technologies and Sensors

The Yaogan series employs a variety of payload technologies tailored for military , including (SAR) for all-weather imaging, electro-optical (EO) systems for high-resolution visible and sensing, and electronic (ELINT) collectors for signals interception. These payloads are distributed across different orbital configurations and mission profiles, with SAR and EO often achieving resolutions sufficient for tactical , , and (ISR) applications. ELINT systems, typically deployed in multi-satellite formations, enable geolocation of emitters through time-difference-of-arrival techniques. SAR sensors in Yaogan satellites, such as those on Yaogan-1, Yaogan-3, Yaogan-6, Yaogan-10, Yaogan-13, and Yaogan-18, utilize active microwave transmission to penetrate clouds and operate in darkness, with reported spatial resolutions better than 1.5 meters in models like Yaogan-29 operating at 615 km altitude. These systems likely operate in X-band or S-band frequencies to balance resolution and swath width, supporting applications from maritime surveillance to terrain mapping. Later variants, including Yaogan-42 launched in 2024, integrate SAR with other sensors for hybrid all-weather capability. Electro-optical payloads, featured in satellites like Yaogan-2, Yaogan-4, Yaogan-7, and Yaogan-8 ( designation JB-6 series), deliver panchromatic imagery with resolutions of approximately 0.8 meters or finer from low Earth orbits around 600-700 km. The Yaogan-8 optical system, developed by the Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics, supports for enhanced target discrimination, while Yaogan-15 represents an evolution with improved revisit rates. These sensors are sunlight-dependent but provide detailed visible-spectrum data critical for identifying assets and infrastructure. ELINT payloads focus on passive collection of , communication, and signals, with Yaogan-9, Yaogan-16, and Yaogan-23 triplets forming baseline networks for trilateration-based localization over wide areas. Yaogan-29 incorporates ELINT alongside EO and SAR for comprehensive environmental probing, as do experimental groups like Yaogan-43. These systems feature directional antennas and wideband receivers to catalog electromagnetic signatures, aiding in electronic order-of-battle analysis.

Satellite Classes and Types

Synthetic-Aperture Radar (SAR) Capabilities

The Yaogan series incorporates (SAR) systems in several missions, classified under the (JB) subclasses, to deliver all-weather and nighttime imaging for military . These active sensors synthesize high-resolution images by leveraging the satellite's motion to simulate a large , enabling detection of ground features through clouds, , and darkness. Early iterations focused on L-band operations for , while later models emphasize finer detail for strategic intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Yaogan-1, designated Jianbing-5 (JB-5) and launched on 27 April 2006 via 4C from , marked China's first space-based SAR satellite, with a mass of 2,700 kg and an initial orbit of 601 × 621 km at 97.8° inclination, later adjusted to 628 × 629 km. Its L-band SAR provided resolutions of approximately 5 m (high-resolution mode) and 20 m (wide-swath mode), supporting basic terrain mapping and target detection. Follow-on JB-5 missions included Yaogan-3, launched 11 November 2007 into a 613 × 623 km orbit at 97.9° inclination, and Yaogan-10, launched 9 2010 into 607 × 621 km at 98.7° inclination, maintaining comparable L-band capabilities for persistent polar coverage. The Jianbing-7 (JB-7) series, introduced from 2009 with four launches, advanced resolution to about 1.5 m through refined SAR processing and lower orbital altitudes of roughly 510 km at 97.4° inclination, enhancing utility for identifying vehicles, structures, and coastal assets. These second-generation systems, built by Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), prioritized weather-independent maritime and land . Subsequent developments, such as Yaogan-29 (launched November 2015 into 615 × 619 km at 97.8°), reportedly exceed 1.5 m resolution, possibly via improved JB-5 derivatives or hybrid modes. Newer efforts like Yaogan-33R (launched 2020 into 682 km at 98.7°), associated with Jianbing-X, indicate ongoing refinements in for higher fidelity and multi-mode imaging. These SAR assets operate in sun-synchronous orbits for repeatable passes, typically revisiting targets every few days, and integrate with ground stations for via L-band links. While official specifications remain classified, analyst assessments highlight progressive resolution gains from 5 m to sub-2 m, driven by antenna size increases and algorithms, bolstering applications in contested environments.

Electro-Optical (EO) Imaging Systems

The Yaogan series incorporates electro-optical (EO) imaging satellites designed to capture visible-light and near-infrared imagery for , with resolutions estimated at sub-meter to 2 meters based on orbital analysis and comparisons to known platforms. These systems, often classified under military designations like Jianbing-6 and Jianbing-10, feature three-axis stabilized buses with maneuvering capabilities for precise pointing and track adjustment during imaging passes. Early examples, such as Yaogan-2 (launched May 25, 2007, on a from ), operated in a 630 km at 97.8° inclination, enabling panchromatic imagery with an estimated ground resolution of approximately 1.5 meters. Subsequent EO satellites, including Yaogan-4 (launched December 1, 2008) and Yaogan-7, expanded this capability with similar orbital parameters and improved sensors inferred from launch configurations and mission durations, achieving resolutions potentially as fine as 0.8 meters or better for identifying vehicles and infrastructure. The Jianbing-10 class, encompassing Yaogan-5 (launched December 15, 2008, via Long March 4B from Taiyuan), Yaogan-10 (launched December 26, 2010), Yaogan-12, and Yaogan-21, represents a maturation in optical reconnaissance, with payloads supporting both high-resolution panchromatic and multispectral imaging for target discrimination in military contexts. These satellites maintain LEO altitudes around 500-700 km, prioritizing revisit rates over wide-area coverage to support tactical intelligence needs. Recent advancements include hybrid and persistent EO variants, such as Yaogan-34 (launched May 2021), described officially for land surveys but assessed for high-resolution optical in inclined orbits up to 1,100 km. Yaogan-41, deployed December 2023 via into , introduces stationary EO surveillance with continuous monitoring potential over specific regions, marking a shift toward persistent wide-area observation. Yaogan-45, launched September 2025 on a 7A from , further exemplifies ongoing EO deployments in sun-synchronous paths for enhanced resolution . Assessments of these systems' performance derive from open-source tracking data and launch , as Chinese emphasizes dual-use applications like disaster relief while Western analysts highlight primary ISR roles.

Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) Collection

The Yaogan satellite series incorporates electronic intelligence (ELINT) capabilities to detect and geolocate non-communicative emissions, such as signals from naval vessels and ground-based systems, primarily for maritime surveillance. These missions enable through multi-satellite formations, providing coarse positional data that cues electro-optical or satellites for refined targeting, particularly in support of anti-access/area-denial strategies. Orbits for ELINT Yaogans often feature low Earth orbits with inclinations optimized for regional coverage, such as over the or Western Pacific. Yaogan-9, launched on March 5, 2010, from aboard a 4C rocket, represents China's inaugural ELINT triad, consisting of three satellites deployed in a 1,080–1,100 km at 63.4° inclination, spaced approximately 120° apart in the same orbital plane. This configuration mirrors historical U.S. (NOSS) designs, facilitating interferometric processing to locate radar emitters with sufficient accuracy for real-time tracking of surface ships. Assessments indicate its role in enhancing precision for anti-ship ballistic missiles by identifying carrier strike group emissions. Subsequent ELINT missions evolved toward denser constellations for improved revisit rates and coverage. The Yaogan-30 series, beginning with Yaogan-30-01A/B/C launched in September 2017, operates in a lower 600 km at 35° inclination, employing a six-satellite "spot" formation within the to scan targeted areas like the and with approximately 30-minute revisit intervals. These satellites detect RF signals over broad swaths, prioritizing emitter characterization over high-resolution imaging. More recent examples include Yaogan-35 triplets, such as Yaogan-35-01 launched in November 2021, which Western analyses attribute to ELINT or functions due to their and profiles, potentially integrating with hybrid s for emitter geolocation in contested maritime domains. Similarly, Yaogan-40 satellites, deployed in polar orbits starting around 2023–2024, extend global ELINT reach by monitoring high-latitude and oceanic activities. These developments reflect iterative advancements in miniaturization and , though exact specifications remain classified, with attributions derived from launch parameters, orbital behaviors, and parallels to known ELINT architectures.

Specialized and Hybrid Variants

Specialized variants of the Yaogan series deviate from standard configurations to address niche operational requirements, such as persistent geosynchronous monitoring or deployments for extended coverage. For instance, Yaogan-41, launched on , 2023, via a rocket from , represents a geosynchronous optical capable of near-continuous surveillance over specific regions, including potential maritime areas of interest like the . This variant's large payload, estimated at over 4,500 kg, enables higher-resolution imaging from GEO altitudes, contrasting with the typical sun-synchronous orbits of earlier Yaogan models, though Chinese state media described it generically for "." Hybrid variants incorporate multi-function payloads or formation-flying architectures to fuse data types, enhancing geolocation accuracy for dynamic targets. The Yaogan-31 series, exemplified by the February 24, 2021, launch of a triplet (Yaogan-31 05A/B/C) on a 4C from , operates as a naval ocean surveillance system analogous to the U.S. (NOSS). These satellites maintain a tight formation—typically one primary bus with two smaller sub-satellites—to triangulate emissions from ships and submarines, combining electronic intelligence collection with potential for surface vessel detection. Western analyses, drawing from orbital parameters and historical precedents, assess this setup as optimized for (A2/AD) scenarios, enabling real-time tracking of adversary naval assets despite official claims of civilian environmental monitoring. Emerging specialized designs include higher-altitude deployments like Yaogan-45, orbited on September 7, 2025, via 7A to a of approximately 20,000 km, marking the second such Yaogan beyond LEO after Yaogan-41. This configuration sacrifices some imaging resolution for wider revisit times and reduced vulnerability to low-orbit threats, supporting strategic surveillance over large theaters. Hybrid elements may involve integrated electro-optical and sensors, as inferred from payload mass and mission profiles in similar series, though exact capabilities remain classified and unconfirmed beyond orbital . These variants underscore the People's Liberation Army's push toward resilient, multi-domain ISR architectures, with empirical evidence from launch cadences and international tracking data indicating prioritization of contested maritime domains over purely terrestrial focus.

Launch Operations

Primary Launch Vehicles and Sites

The Yaogan satellite series primarily utilizes variants of the Long March (Chang Zheng) expendable launch vehicles, produced by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, to deploy payloads into low Earth orbit configurations suitable for reconnaissance missions. Key vehicles include the Long March 2C (CZ-2C), which supports payloads up to approximately 2,200 kg to sun-synchronous orbit and has been used for multiple triplet deployments; the Long March 2D (CZ-2D), an enhanced version capable of similar orbits with improved reliability; the Long March 4B (CZ-4B), employed for heavier payloads or formation flying satellites; and the Long March 4C (CZ-4C), optimized for polar sun-synchronous orbits with a capacity of about 4,000 kg to 700 km altitude. These selections align with mission-specific requirements, such as orbital inclination and satellite mass, with over 50 Yaogan launches documented using these rockets since the series inception in 2006. Launches are conducted from China's three major satellite launch centers: (JSLC) in Province, which handles the majority of Yaogan missions into sun-synchronous or low-inclination orbits due to its northern location and eastward trajectory over the ; (TSLC) in Province, preferred for polar sun-synchronous orbits essential for global coverage in (SAR) and electronic intelligence (ELINT) variants, leveraging its higher latitude for direct polar access; and (XSLC) in Province, used for missions requiring southeastern trajectories, including some electro-optical imaging satellites. has hosted launches like Yaogan-30 Group-05 on a CZ-2C on July 25, 2019, while supported Yaogan-40 (03) via 6A on September 7, 2025, and facilitated Yaogan-35 on a CZ-2D on November 6, 2021.
Launch VehiclePrimary Site UsageExample Yaogan Mission
(JSLC)Yaogan-30 Group-05 (2019)
(XSLC), Yaogan-35 (2021)
Long March 4C (TSLC), Yaogan-9 series
Long March 4B (TSLC)Yaogan-26 (2014)
This distribution reflects operational flexibility, with site selection influenced by overflight paths for and geopolitical considerations, though Chinese state media attributes launches to civilian without detailing applications.

Notable Missions and Deployment Patterns

The Yaogan series exhibits deployment patterns tailored to mission objectives, with many satellites placed in sun-synchronous orbits at altitudes between 500 and 700 km and inclinations of approximately 97-98 degrees to enable consistent lighting for electro-optical and operations. Triplet formations are common for missions requiring or enhanced coverage, as seen in series like Yaogan-9 (launched March 5, 2010), Yaogan-16 (November 25, 2011), and subsequent iterations up to Yaogan-31, which deploy three satellites into near-identical low Earth orbits to form a constellation segment for persistent . Lower-inclination orbits around 35 degrees at similar altitudes characterize the Yaogan-30 series, with multiple triplets launched since 2018 into roughly 600 km orbits, likely optimizing for equatorial and maritime reconnaissance over regions like the . Launch cadence has accelerated, with patterns showing frequent use of multiple payloads per mission to rapidly build out orbital clusters; for instance, Yaogan-35A, B, and C were deployed together on November 6, 2021, via a from into a . The Yaogan-39 series follows this, with at least five documented triplet launches by late 2023, including Yaogan-39 05A and 05B on December 10, 2023, into 94.5-95 degree inclinations at around 500-600 km, contributing to a growing network for real-time intelligence gathering. Sites like and dominate, with vehicles such as /D and 4C enabling these patterns, while rarer higher-altitude deployments signal evolution toward geostationary or highly elliptical orbits for strategic persistence. Notable recent missions include Yaogan-41, launched December 2023 on a Long March 5 into a higher orbit, possibly geostationary, for persistent high-resolution imaging, followed by Yaogan-45 on September 8, 2025, via Long March 7A from Wenchang, joining Yaogan-41 in an elevated configuration for enhanced spatial intelligence over fixed regions. Another highlight is the Yaogan-40 series, with Yaogan-40 02 deployed May 11, 2025, featuring multiple satellite bodies in a coordinated launch, underscoring China's shift toward hybrid formations integrating radar and signals intelligence for anti-access/area-denial applications. These patterns reflect a strategic buildup, with over 40 distinct Yaogan designations by 2025, prioritizing redundancy and global coverage amid tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

Military Role and Operational Use

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Functions

The Yaogan satellite series forms the backbone of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) architecture, enabling detection, tracking, and targeting of adversary assets across diverse domains. Launched since 2006, the constellation has grown to over 144 satellites by 2024, incorporating electro-optical (EO), synthetic-aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) sensors to provide layered, persistent coverage, particularly over the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and key chokepoints. These systems support all-weather, day-night operations, with low Earth orbit (LEO) platforms offering high revisit rates and geostationary orbit (GEO) assets like Yaogan-41 ensuring continuous monitoring of car-sized objects such as ships and aircraft. ELINT-focused variants, such as the Yaogan-30 series (30 satellites launched 2017–2021 in LEO at 35° inclination), deliver near-constant electronic signal detection and geolocation across and the Western Pacific, functioning analogously to the U.S. (NOSS) by triangulating emissions from naval radars and communications for precise positioning of surface vessels and . Complementing these are Yaogan-31 (12 satellites in four triplets, 2018–2021) and Yaogan-40 (3 polar-orbiting satellites launched 2023), which extend global ELINT coverage, enabling the PLA to map adversary electronic and cue follow-on imaging or strikes even in contested environments. Multi-intelligence (multi-INT) triplets in the Yaogan-35, -36, and -39 series (45 satellites total, launched 2021–2023 in 35° inclined LEO) integrate ELINT with EO, (IR), and SAR for automated "tip-and-cue" workflows, where initial signal intercepts prompt high-resolution imaging to resolve targets amid decoys or electronic countermeasures. SAR and EO imaging systems enhance reconnaissance precision, with Yaogan-33 and -34 series (8 satellites launched 2020–2023) providing radar-based for terrain mapping, infrastructure assessment, and maritime surveillance independent of weather or illumination. The GEO-positioned Yaogan-41, launched December 15, 2023, at approximately 123.5° , offers ~2.5-meter resolution optical and IR imagery for persistent tracking of U.S. and allied naval forces around , the , and beyond, surpassing the revisit limitations of LEO constellations. Collectively, these ISR functions underpin PLA anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) strategies by fusing data for real-time awareness, targeting (e.g., anti-ship ballistic missiles), and disruption of adversary coalitions, though Chinese descriptions emphasize applications like monitoring, contradicted by orbital parameters optimized for military theaters.

Integration with PLA Strategic Objectives

The Yaogan satellite series directly supports the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) strategic shift toward informatized warfare, where space-based , , and (ISR) enables integrated joint operations and precision targeting. By providing persistent electro-optical, (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) data, Yaogan constellations facilitate the PLA's command, control, communications, computers, , , and (C4ISR) architecture, essential for achieving "system destruction warfare" against high-value adversary assets. This aligns with PLA doctrinal emphasis on leveraging space assets for early warning, battle damage assessment, and real-time in contested environments, as articulated in military writings on joint anti-air raid operations. In the context of anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategies, particularly for scenarios involving the or , Yaogan satellites form a critical space-based layer for detecting and tracking naval and air movements, including U.S. carrier strike groups. The series' ocean surveillance variants, such as those in the Yaogan-10 and Yaogan-18 groups, enhance ship detection and geolocation capabilities, supplying targeting cues for ballistic and cruise missiles to enforce area . Recent additions like Yaogan-41, a geosynchronous optical platform launched in 2023, extend this coverage to persistent monitoring of car-sized objects across the , bolstering the PLA's ability to counter U.S. under conditions of "local wars under informatized conditions." Yaogan's expansion, with over 140 launches by 2024 including hybrid ELINT/SIGINT variants, integrates into the PLA's broader modernization goals by fusing data with ground-based sensors and the Strategic Support Force's information dominance units. This network supports out-of-area operations and multi-domain precision strikes, reducing reliance on vulnerable terrestrial assets and enabling the PLA to contest U.S. ISR superiority. Empirical evidence from deployment patterns, such as the rapid rollout of Yaogan-43 triads for low-Earth orbit redundancy, underscores their role in sustaining operational tempo during high-intensity conflicts, though vulnerabilities to counterspace threats remain a doctrinal concern.

Geopolitical Implications and Criticisms

Western Assessments of Threat Potential

assessments characterize the Yaogan series as a cornerstone of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) space-based , surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) architecture, incorporating electro-optical (EO), (SAR), and (SIGINT) sensors to monitor, track, and target and allied forces. These capabilities enable the PLA to generate and electronic data supporting precision strikes and maritime surveillance, thereby enhancing battlefield awareness and global in potential contingencies such as a conflict. Analyses from the Center for Strategic and International Studies highlight Yaogan-41, launched on December 15, 2023, into (GEO) as a particularly advanced optical asset with estimated resolution down to 2.5 meters, permitting persistent tracking of car-sized objects across the region. This GEO positioning overcomes limitations of (LEO) satellites by providing near-continuous coverage, which, when integrated with and lower-orbit assets, could cue anti-ship ballistic missiles like the DF-21D or against carrier strike groups. Since the program's inception in 2006, over 140 Yaogan satellites have been deployed, forming constellations that reduce revisit gaps and amplify the PLA's real-time of naval and air movements. United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission evaluations emphasize the Yaogan-30 series, consisting of 15 satellites as of 2019, for delivering near-continuous global naval surveillance, including triangulation of surface targets and integration with PLA missile systems to improve anti-ship weapon efficacy against naval assets. Such capabilities contribute to (A2/AD) strategies, complicating intervention by enabling early warning of force deployments and supporting counterspace operations that could deny access to space-dependent assets like GPS and communications. Broader Western threat perceptions frame Yaogan's dual-use design—officially for civilian but operationally aligned with PLA objectives—as amplifying risks to operational security, with persistent monitoring diminishing concealment options for stealth platforms and expeditionary forces in contested areas like the and . These systems, managed under initiatives, bolster the PLA's joint operations by fusing ISR data into kill chains, potentially deterring third-party involvement in regional crises through demonstrated targeting precision.

Chinese Official Narrative vs. Empirical Evidence

The Chinese government portrays the Yaogan satellite series as a civilian remote sensing program dedicated to scientific experiments, land surveys, crop yield estimation, disaster prevention and relief, and meteorological data collection. Official announcements from state media, such as Xinhua, following each launch reiterate these purposes while providing scant details on payloads, resolutions, or orbits, maintaining a veil of opacity typical of Beijing's space policy. This narrative aligns with China's broader emphasis on dual-use technologies but frames Yaogan explicitly as contributing to national economic and environmental monitoring rather than defense. In contrast, and orbital analysis indicate that Yaogan satellites possess advanced capabilities suited for , , and (ISR), including electro-optical imaging, (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) collection. For example, Yaogan-30 missions deploy in triplets forming baseline interferometry for precise geolocation of and communication signals, a technique analogous to the U.S. for tracking naval assets. Similarly, Yaogan-31 and Yaogan-40 variants exhibit ELINT profiles enabling interception and analysis of electronic emissions over maritime domains. These configurations prioritize strategic military objectives, such as monitoring adversary fleets in the , over the diffuse civilian tasks claimed. Empirical evidence from tracking networks reveals deployment patterns inconsistent with purely utility, including sun-synchronous orbits for high-resolution imaging of installations and geosynchronous placements like Yaogan-41 for persistent overhead of fixed targets. The program's direct support to the Strategic Support Force, responsible for space-based ISR, further belies the official designation, as evidenced by launch cadences aligning with PLA operational needs rather than agricultural or disaster cycles. China's failure to release verifiable imagery or data products publicly—unlike transparent initiatives—reinforces assessments that Yaogan serves predominantly ends, with any applications likely secondary or incidental. Western analyses, drawing on declassified and photometric data, consistently classify the series as a cornerstone of Beijing's space-enabled warfighting architecture.

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