(ECNS) - China has submitted applications to the International Telecommunication Union for frequency and orbital resources covering more than 200,000 satellites across 14 satellite constellations, according to information published on the ITU's website.

Shijian-29A and Shijian-29B satellites successfully launched into orbit by modified Long March-7 rocket. (Photo: China News Service/ Luo Yunfei)

The filings, submitted between Dec. 25 and 31, 2025, represent China's largest-ever coordinated application for satellite frequency and orbit resources, covering both medium- and low-Earth orbit systems.

The latest round of filings is notable for extending beyond traditional satellite operators, incorporating research institutes, commercial space companies and telecommunications operators. Industry observers said the broad participation reflects growing interest across different sectors in satellite-based systems.

Under the ITU's Radio Regulations, satellite operators are generally required to complete frequency and orbital filings, coordination and registration procedures two to seven years before launching satellites. Submitting satellite network information to the ITU is the first mandatory step for deploying satellite systems under international rules.

Experts said the process from international filing and coordination through satellite launch, system construction and service provision typically takes a long time. Under international coordination requirements for spectrum and orbital resources, as well as changing market demand, the number of satellites ultimately deployed and their technical parameters are often adjusted over time, making such filings a routine step under ITU procedures rather than a deployment guarantee.

(By Zhang Jiahao)