China’s TJS-16 Mystery: A Secret Satellite and Its Mysterious Companion

A Silent Launch, A Loud Statement

On March 29, 2025, at precisely 12:05 p.m. Eastern, the Long March 7A soared into the sky from China’s Wenchang Satellite Launch Center. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) confirmed a successful deployment, but details remained scarce. Officially, the TJS-16 is a “communication technology experiment satellite,” but experts suspect its true role lies in reconnaissance, signals intelligence, or early warning systems for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

TJS-15’s Phantom Companion: A Space Enigma

Earlier this month, China launched TJS-15, another classified satellite. But what followed was even more intriguing—a so-called apogee kick motor (AKM) was detected in an orbit a few hundred kilometers above the geostationary belt. Normally, an AKM is discarded after final orbital insertion. However, this object has been making controlled maneuvers, suggesting low-thrust propulsion capabilities.

This eerie similarity to the TJS-3 mission of 2018—where an apparent AKM exhibited synchronized movements with the main satellite—raises questions. Could China be testing rendezvous and proximity operations, satellite inspection, or even counter-space capabilities?

The Long March 7A: China’s Next-Gen Workhorse

The TJS-16 launch marked the ninth flight of the Long March 7A, a three-stage rocket designed for geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) missions. With its kerosene and liquid oxygen fuel mix, the rocket aims to replace the aging Long March 3B. Though still launching at a modest pace, it represents China’s push toward more efficient and powerful launch vehicles.

What’s Next? The Bigger Picture

China’s ambitions in space are accelerating at an unprecedented rate. With TJS-16, a growing megaconstellation project, and rumored plans for over 100 launches in 2025, the nation is cementing its presence in Earth’s orbit and beyond. The emergence of potentially maneuverable satellites adds to concerns over space security and the militarization of the final frontier.

Final Thoughts: A Game of Shadows in the Stars

The TJS series remains an enigma, fueling speculation and geopolitical intrigue. As China continues its rapid space expansion, the world watches closely. Will these mysterious satellites serve peaceful purposes, or are they the harbingers of a new era in space warfare?

One thing is certain—the next move in this cosmic chess game is yet to come.

source: https://spacenews.com/china-launches-classified-tjs-16-spacecraft-companion-object-emerges-alongside-earlier-tjs-15-satellite/