- China has launched the Xingji Guihang, its first carrier rocket maritime recovery vessel and the world’s fifth of its kind.
- The 100-meter-long vessel features a 40×60-meter recovery deck, a DP2 dynamic positioning system, and the capability for unmanned operation.
- It can recover rockets in Sea State 4 and operate in Sea State 5, ensuring flexibility in challenging sea conditions.
- The ship will undergo trials and exercises in Hainan Province before supporting future medium- and large-sized reusable rocket missions.
China has unveiled its first carrier rocket maritime recovery vessel, making it the world’s fifth and positioning the nation as the second after the United States to operate such a vessel. This milestone marks significant progress in China’s reusable rocket maritime recovery capabilities, as reported by MarineInsight.
New Recovery Vessel Built for Medium and Large Reusable Rockets
The newly launched vessel features a robust build, measuring approximately 100 meters in length and 42 meters in width, with a recovery deck of 40 by 60 meters—large enough to accommodate the returning first stage of a rocket. With a displacement of 17,000 tons, the ship is equipped with a DP2 dynamic positioning system, enabling it to recover rockets in Sea State 4 and operate in Sea State 5. These classifications, set by the World Meteorological Organization, define ocean conditions based on wave height, wind speed, and sea behavior. Sea State 4 is considered moderate, with wave heights of 1.25 to 2.5 meters and wind speeds of 11 to 16 knots, while Sea State 5 is rough, with wave heights of 2.5 to 4 meters and wind speeds of 17 to 21 knots.
The vessel’s intelligent unmanned operation mode enhances safety and efficiency during recovery operations, and a dedicated storage compartment allows secure transport of rocket components at sea. Following its launch, the ship will undergo a series of assessments, including outfitting, checks of its mechanical and electrical systems, sea trials, and performance evaluations. It is expected to arrive in Hainan Province in September for maritime exercises and additional testing. Looking ahead, the vessel is expected to support recovery operations for a broader range of medium- and large-sized reusable rockets.
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Source: MarineInsight
