China reports failed launch of Tianlong-3 rocket

Chinese aerospace company Space Pioneer has acknowledged a failed launch of its heavy liquid-fuel rocket, Tianlong-3, which is comparable to SpaceX’s Falcon 9, Kechuangban Daily reports.

The rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China, but a malfunction occurred during flight. Space Pioneer said its team will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the incident.

According to its developers, Tianlong-3 is designed to carry payloads exceeding 20 tonnes and can deploy up to 36 satellites in a single launch.

China is rapidly advancing its national space programme, building meteorological, telecommunications, and navigation satellites, while developing technologies for lunar, asteroid, and Mars exploration. The country’s space station is operational in orbit and intended for international cooperation.

In 2025, China set a national record with 92 successful launches.