New Delhi: In a significant leap for its electronic warfare and space surveillance capabilities, China has successfully launched three cutting-edge radio-tracking satellites. Named after ‘Diting’, a mythical creature from Chinese folklore known for its ability to perceive everything merely by listening, these satellites will act as Beijing’s highly sensitive ‘ears’ in space.
On Sunday afternoon, the Lijian-1 Y18 rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northern China, carrying a total of nine satellites into orbit. According to reports from the South China Morning Post, the payload included the first batch of three Diting-01 satellites, which have successfully entered their designated orbits.
Developed by Chang Guang Satellite Technology and operated by StarRF, these satellites form the cornerstone of China’s first commercial signal intelligence network. Their primary function is to continuously monitor and pinpoint the exact source of radio frequencies originating from Earth.
Unlike traditional ground-based surveillance, this space-based radio frequency sensing system offers an extensive coverage area across land and sea. The satellites are equipped with advanced radio receivers capable of detecting signals from warship radars, military communication networks, and electronic jammers.
Defence analysts note that the strategic implications of this deployment are profound. In a conflict scenario, the Diting satellites could be instrumental in tracking enemy warships that have deliberately turned off their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS). Furthermore, they possess the capability to map out hostile air-defence radar locations hidden deep within enemy territory, thereby constructing a comprehensive picture of an adversary’s electronic warfare infrastructure.
The deployment of these highly sensitive assets underscores China’s rapidly advancing space-based surveillance technology. By leveraging commercial satellites for what effectively serves dual-use intelligence gathering, Beijing has significantly bolstered its ability to monitor global military movements and electronic emissions from low Earth orbit.