HWD (Hulianwang Weixing Digui, Xingwang Digui) (Type 1)

Guowang is a Chinese low-Earth orbit satellite internet megaconstellation developed by the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) with support from the Chinese Academy of Space Technology (CAST). It is operated by the state-owned China Satellite Network Group and planned to comprise more than 13,000 satellites. Individual spacecraft are known as Hulianwang Weixing Digui (HWD) or Xingwang Digui.

The mission aims to establish an independent satellite-based broadband network for China. Initial deployment focuses on domestic coverage, with licensing processes underway. Global services are planned as the constellation grows and its coverage density increases. The system is intended to supply connectivity to remote and underserved regions and support future integrated space-based and terrestrial communication infrastructures.

Guowang was initiated in 2022 as China’s counterpart to other large-scale satellite internet networks. The operator plans to orbit about 400 satellites by 2027. During the 2030s, the full system of more than 13,000 satellites is targeted to provide continuous worldwide coverage. The constellation architecture includes multiple orbital shells designed to offer high capacity, low latency, and redundancy.

Manufacturing responsibilities are distributed among three known producers: CAST, SECM/IAMCAS, and Yinhe (Galaxy Space). All three supply satellites for the constellation. Public sources do not provide details on how their respective designs differ. The spacecraft are based on standardized small-satellite platforms optimized for high-volume production and frequent batch launches.

The constellation foresees about 6,000 satellites in low Earth orbits between 500 and 600 km and approximately 7,000 in higher orbits near 1,145 km. Satellites launched so far have been placed either into the 1,145-km shell or into intermediate orbits around 900 km. Common payload elements include phased-array antennas, inter-satellite links, and electric propulsion systems for station-keeping.

Technical parameters such as spacecraft mass, power capability, and platform dimensions have not been published. The satellites are believed to fall within the small- to medium-class range suitable for dense orbital deployment and standardized production workflows.