China Achieves Milestone in Liquid Oxygen-Kerosene Engine Testing

On January 19, 2024, the Baolongyu test site, part of the Institute 165 under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), marked a historic achievement by conducting three acceptance tests of liquid oxygen-kerosene engines within one day. This unprecedented accomplishment signifies a major step forward in China's capability to test and validate the primary propulsion systems for future launch vehicles, thus paving the way for more frequent launch activities.

Since its inception in January 2005, the Baolongyu site has played a crucial role in performing acceptance tests critical for evaluating engine performance. According to a release from the Academy shared with the Global Times, completing three tests in one day for two types of oxygen-kerosene engines is a first for China.

In recent years, Institute 165 has benefited from strong support from government authorities, implementing various capability enhancement projects that incorporate digital advancements and technological improvements. These initiatives have allowed the time required for liquid oxygen-kerosene engine acceptance tests to decrease significantly, down from five days to just two days.

The institute is committed to constructing advanced testing facilities to enhance its testing framework and foster excellence. This includes the focus on digitalizing the testing system and coordinating test processes, which aims to advance the institute's scientific research and production capabilities. Moving forward, the institute vows to maintain the development of new productive forces in liquid propulsion testing, prioritize process standardization, and boost quality levels to ensure timely deliveries of propulsion engines for China's next-generation launch vehicles.