China Rocket unveiled a slew of solid-fuelled rockets code named ‘Smart Dragon’ (SD) and liquid-propellant rocket Tenglong a few days ago. China’s move is timed with the upcoming test-launch of India’s mini-PSLV rocket or small satellite launch vehicle (SSLV) by the year-end

NEW DELHI: Keeping an eye on the growing satellite launch market, China has unveiled small space rockets to give competition to India.

China Rocket, the commercial space wing of rocket-maker China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, unveiled a slew of solid-fuelled rockets code-named ‘Smart Dragon’ (SD) and liquid-propellant rocket Tenglong a few days ago. However, the rockets will make debut launches in the next two years. China’s move is timed with the upcoming test-launch of India’s mini-PSLV rocket or small satellite launch vehicle (SSLV) by the year-end. ISRO’s SSLV is basically a rocket-on-demand and has been developed specifically for commercial launches. The SSLV, which has been booked by a US satellite customer much before its debut, can be assembled in just 3-5 days as compared to 30-40 days for a normal-size rocket and made in just one-tenth the cost of a PSLV, which is worth around Rs 150 crore.

The Chinese SD rocket family comprises SD-1, SD-2 and SD-3. While SD-1 launcher, with 200 kg lifting capability, completed its maiden flight on August 17, SD-2 (500 kg lifting capability) and SD-3 (1.5 ton) will make first flights in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Tenglong’s first flight is due in 2021.

The Chinese rockets will have to create a niche for themselves in the satellite market, where ISRO has already gained its foothold. Its tried and trusted PSLV has till now launched 297 foreign satellites and still holds the world record for launching 104 satellites in one go. PSLV has various variants, which are meant for carrying different-size payloads to different orbits. Besides the PSLV and upcoming SSLV, ISRO has also started using the fourth stage of the rocket for carrying nano-satellite or experimental modules of private parties for experimental purpose.