The project, situated in the Chengdu Future Science and Technology City, was developed by Beijing-based Aotian Technology. Specializing in high-quality, fully autonomous electric propulsion systems for commercial satellites, the company's products are tailored to meet the propulsion and orbit maintenance needs of microsatellite platforms under 1,000 kilograms. Aotian reports that these systems have already been utilized in more than 200 satellites.

Liu Neng, executive deputy general manager of Aotian Technology (Chengdu) Co Ltd, highlighted that the facility focuses on producing core components for electric propulsion systems and is on track to reach full operational status by 2028.

"Aotian Technology launched China's first intelligent manufacturing line for commercial electric propulsion systems in Beijing in 2022, with an annual production capacity of 1,500 systems. Chengdu will act as the assembly base for a new type of electric propulsion system employing a distinct technological approach compared to the Beijing base," Liu said.

In collaboration with the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Aotian has also established a joint intelligent electric propulsion laboratory in Chengdu Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone. The partnership aims to advance key technologies supporting satellite internet infrastructure and space orbit services.

Chengdu's rapid progress in satellite internet and related industries has drawn numerous companies to the region. Last month, Xinghan Hangyu Technology Co signed an agreement to establish a reusable liquid-fueled carrier rocket headquarters project within Chengdu Economic and Technological Development Zone.

Duan Tao, deputy general manager of Xinghan Hangyu, explained that the 4-billion-yuan ($550.8 million) project would focus on liquid-fueled rocket engines and various sizes of commercial carrier rockets. With research and development already completed, the company aims to begin mass production of rocket engines in 2026, reaching an annual output of over 200 engines by 2027.

"Chengdu's aerospace industry benefits from a robust industrial chain and comprehensive supply network that supports intelligent manufacturing processes," Duan said.

Zhai Shaojian, deputy general manager of Chengdu Zhongkewei Information Technology Research Institute Co Ltd, emphasized the city's deep talent pool, bolstered by its numerous universities and research institutions. "Chengdu's openness and support for emerging industries, including commercial aerospace and satellite internet, provide a vibrant environment for innovation," Zhai said.

He added that his company is optimizing its existing products and exploring new solutions for applications in vehicles, drones, and civil vessels.

According to Chengdu's economy and information technology bureau, the city's satellite internet and application industries generated 17.3 billion yuan in revenue last year, marking a 53.2 percent year-on-year growth. By 2030, Chengdu aims to build a satellite internet and application industry cluster valued at 100 billion yuan.

Related Links
University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
The latest information about the Commercial Satellite Industry