Why China’s reusable rocket breakthrough matters for the PLA’s ‘kill chain’

AI Summary

China has achieved a breakthrough in reusable rocket technology with successful recovery of boosters, advancing its ability to support the PLA’s satellite-enabled targeting and engagement capabilities known as the 'kill chain.' This innovation could enhance military resilience and operational combat advantage.

A pair of landmark rocket recoveries in recent weeks has brought China a step closer to mastering reusable launch technology – a breakthrough analysts said could give the People’s Liberation Army an advantage in combat by increasing the resilience of its satellite-supported “kill chain”, the process of identifying, tracking and engaging a target. In a first for China, commercial rocket company LandSpace recovered a stainless-steel booster using deployable legs after an orbital flight earlier...