Over a two-day period, China successfully launched two new spacecraft into orbit, adding to its classified satellite series. A Long March 3C rocket launched the Tongxin Jishu Shiyan-19 (TJS-19) satellite into geosynchronous transfer orbit on May 12th. The Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) confirmed the launch's success, describing TJS-19 as designed for “multi-band, high-speed satellite communication technology verification.”
While SAST didn't release images or technical specifics, Western analysts suggest the TJS series, now at 17 operational satellites, could be involved in classified activities, including signals intelligence, early warning systems, and satellite inspection operations. The launch mission patch interestingly depicted one of the Four Heavenly Kings, a recurring theme in previous TJS launches.
Following closely, a Long March 6A rocket launched the Yaogan-40 (02) group on May 11th. CASC announced the launch's success, indicating the satellites' purpose is primarily “electromagnetic environment detection and related technical experiments.” Airspace closure notices pointed to a near-polar orbit, consistent with the Yaogan-40 (01) group launched in September 2023. Yaogan satellites are believed to serve both civilian and military needs, with potential uses encompassing optical imaging, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT).
These missions, China's 24th and 25th orbital launch attempts of 2025, are part of a flurry of expected launches throughout the week, including missions utilizing Long March 2D, Zhuque-2, and Ceres-1 rockets. The Tianwen-2 mission is also anticipated before the month's end.