Liaowang-1 Chinese Space Tracking Vessel
The Liaowang-1
Space Tracking Vessel
Other
Basic Information
Name
Liaowang-1 Chinese Space Tracking Vessel
Designation
The Liaowang-1
Alternate Designation
The Liaowang-1; Liao Wang 1
Equipment Type
Space Tracking Vessel
Manufacturer
—
Date of Introduction
2025
Description
The Liaowang-1 Chinese Space Tracking Vessel is a next-generation maritime space tracking vessel that marks a major leap in both naval power projection and space surveillance capability. Recently revealed through photos circulating on Chinese social media, this imposing ship features prominent radar domes and massive high-gain antennae—engineered with a focus on function over aesthetics.
Naval & Littoral Specifications
Beam
29.00 m
System
Alternative Designation
The Liaowang-1; Liao Wang 1
Type
Space Tracking Vessel
Builder
INA
Crew
INA
Note
Maritime space tracking vessels like the Liaowang-1 serve as mobile command centers for monitoring space operations and collecting telemetry from rockets, spacecraft, and satellites. Unlike ground-based tracking stations limited by geography and Earth’s curvature, these ships can be deployed across oceans to cover launch arcs, orbital passes, and missile trajectories in real time. Beyond satellite support, the vessel also holds value in missile tracking and potential anti-satellite (ASAT) roles. Its sophisticated sensors and telemetry systems can monitor intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests and may play a role in future ASAT capabilities, a field in which China has already demonstrated technological intent. The Liaowang-1 thus represents not just a support platform, but a node in the network of space warfare systems increasingly central to national defense strategies. For the Chinese Navy, this ship enhances the PLAN’s strategic autonomy and ability to support the broader ambitions of the People’s Liberation Army. It reinforces China’s aim to synchronize naval operations with space control—an increasingly important domain in 21st-century conflicts. But the implications extend globally. For the United States Navy and its allies, Liaowang-1 represents a new layer of operational complexity. With this class of vessel, China now has the ability to monitor U.S. and allied naval movements, space launches, and satellite trajectories on a near-global scale, narrowing the technological and intelligence gap.
Dimensions
Length
224.0 m
Height
INA
Beam
29.0 m
Draft
INA
Displacement, Full Load
30,000 tons
Propulsion System
Engine Name
INA
Engine Type
Diesel
Engine Power
INA
Maximum Range
INA
Maximum Speed
INA
Protection
Hull
INA
Countermeasures
INA
NBC Water Washdown System
Yes
Details
Country of Origin
China
Category
Special Purpose Ships
Naval > Special Purpose Ships
Filter Label
L
Classification
Domain
Naval & Littoral
Equipment Status
Active
Dimensions
Length
224 m
Width
29 m
Height
—
Weight
30000000 kg
Operators (1)
China
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