Starlink rival Qianfan hits satellite milestone, but is it too slow and costly?

AI Summary

China's Qianfan network achieved a national milestone by deploying over 200 broadband satellites, marking a significant expansion in its constellation. However, concerns remain about the pace and cost-efficiency of the satellite deployment compared to competitors like Starlink.

China’s Qianfan network has hit a national milestone by placing over 200 broadband satellites in orbit, but there are concerns its deployment could be too slow and costly. The constellation now has 201 satellites after a successful launch on board a Zhuque-2E rocket from the Gobi Desert at 4.23pm Beijing time on Tuesday. The mission delivered Qianfan DTC-01 – a direct-to-cell test satellite – alongside a satellite from China Mobile, state broadcaster CCTV reported. The flight followed...