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China is nearing completion of its first offshore platform for launching and recovering reusable liquid-propellant rockets at the Oriental Aerospace Port in Haiyang, Shandong Province. The facility is expected to be ready for trial operations around February 5, ahead of a planned maritime launch involving a commercial liquid-fueled rocket during the Chinese New Year holiday.

This initiative aims to enhance China's space capabilities and reduce launch costs through rocket reusability. The platform features a hydraulic erector system for launching heavy rockets and includes a flame trench for exhaust management.

It is part of a broader development strategy for China's commercial space industry, which saw 50 launches in 2025, contributing significantly to the country's total space missions. The platform will support the handling of various propellants and is integral to Shandong's aerospace ecosystem, which encompasses launch services and satellite applications across multiple cities.