China’s uncrewed reusable spacecraft, which launches atop a rocket and lands at a secretive military airfield, is primarily testing technology but could also be used for satellite manipulation or retrieval, experts suggest.

On its third mission in June, the spacecraft was observed releasing and then maneuvering back to an object several kilometers away.

While the spacecraft’s military applications, such as inspecting or disabling enemy satellites, are noted, it also has potential non-military uses like satellite refueling.

The spacecraft’s technology remains undisclosed, and it has not been publicly photographed. Similar to the U.S.’s X-37B, China’s spaceplane is likely a technology demonstrator.

The spacecraft’s current flight began in December 2023, following a previous mission in August 2022, Japan Today has reported.

U.S. Space Command remains vigilant about potential dual-use technologies in China’s space activities.

Written by B.C. Begley