China Delivers First Sea-Based Rocket Net Recovery Platform 'Linghangzhe'

China's 'Linghangzhe' Platform Bolsters Reusable Rocket Ambitions

China has officially delivered its first sea-based rocket net recovery platform, named 'Linghangzhe' (Pathfinder), on Sunday, December 1, 2025. This development represents a significant advancement in the nation's capabilities for reusable space technology. The platform has received certification from the China Classification Society, making it the first sea-based rocket recovery platform in the country to achieve the necessary class and statutory certifications.

The introduction of the 'Linghangzhe' is a pivotal step in China's efforts to reduce the costs associated with space launches and to foster a competitive commercial space industry. It is designed to play a crucial role in the recovery of the first stages of reusable rockets, thereby enabling their re-flight.

Advancing Maritime Recovery Capabilities

The 'Linghangzhe' platform is specifically engineered to support the recovery operations for rockets utilizing a net system. This technology is intended to retrieve the first stage of rockets such as iSpace's SQX-3 (Hyperbola-3) reusable liquid oxygen-methane rocket.

This delivery follows the launch in August 2025 of another significant vessel, the 'Xingji Guihang' (Interstellar Return) drone ship, developed by Beijing-based private aerospace firm iSpace. The 'Xingji Guihang' is designed for the maritime recovery of reusable rocket stages, similar to the drone ships employed by SpaceX.

Technical Specifications and Strategic Importance

The 'Xingji Guihang' vessel boasts robust specifications, measuring approximately 100 meters long and 42 meters wide, with a recovery deck spanning 40 meters by 60 meters (or 2,400 square meters). It is equipped with a DP2 dynamic positioning system, allowing it to precisely capture rockets in Sea State 4 and navigate steadily in Sea State 5, offering flexibility in recovery points and enhancing safety.

China's development of these sea-based recovery platforms positions it as the second nation globally, after the United States, to possess such advanced capabilities for reusable rocket maritime recovery. This strategic move underscores China's ambition to become a leading force in space exploration and to challenge the dominance of established space powers.

Future Outlook for Reusable Rockets

The 'Linghangzhe' and 'Xingji Guihang' platforms are integral to China's plans for upcoming reusable rocket missions. iSpace aims to conduct an 'orbit entrance + maritime recovery' test flight for its SQX-3 rocket around the end of 2025, utilizing these new maritime assets. These advancements are expected to significantly contribute to the development of China's massive low-orbit internet constellation and other commercial space endeavors, laying a solid foundation for more frequent and cost-effective access to space.