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DIA Confirms China Reusable Spaceplane Using Maxar Images

By Drooid · Oct 28, 2026, 14:52 UTC · How we work

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Summary

U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency identified China’s reusable spaceplane in a high-resolution image.
A Maxar (now Vantor) satellite captured the vehicle with an open payload bay and arrays.
The DIA’s October 2026 report said the craft closely resembles the U.S. X-37B shuttle.
China has flown four missions since September 2020, all launched on Long March 2F rockets.
Analysts say the open bay could release payloads or inspect satellites, while China claims the program is peaceful.

Summary

DIA reports China operated over 510 ISR satellites by July 2026.
The fleet uses electro-optical imaging, synthetic aperture radar, and electronic signals collection.
DIA warns the expanding constellation could increase detection of U.S. naval movements in the Indo-Pacific.
More frequent observations may erode U.S. operational surprise despite targeting limitations on moving ships.
Civilian-owned satellites also provide military-useful intelligence, depending on data access and timeliness.

History

After NASA chose Boeing in 1999 to develop the X-37, the Air Force moved the project to DARPA in 2004 and launched the first orbital test vehicle in April 2010, proving reusable spaceplane technology. The program completed six missions, the sixth staying 908 days in orbit, while China’s 2020-2026 deployment of Long March-2F reusable planes mirrors it, prompting DIA scrutiny.

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Historical Context

After NASA chose Boeing in 1999 to develop the X-37, the Air Force moved the project to DARPA in 2004 and launched the first orbital test vehicle in April 2010, proving reusable spaceplane technology. The program completed six missions, the sixth staying 908 days in orbit, while China’s 2020-2026 deployment of Long March-2F reusable planes mirrors it, prompting DIA scrutiny.

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