THE NEW SPACE RACE: China readies first commercial resupply craft, first booster reflight, and next landing attempt.

As its launch cadence continues to grow, China is stepping further towards reusable rockets as it prepares for the first re-flight of a previously-flown booster, while the Chang Zheng 12A will attempt to become China’s third rocket to have its first stage recovered, on its second attempt.

In addition to testing droneships for future ocean landings, China is also increasing the number of vehicles that can be launched from platforms at sea. Meanwhile, its two major broadband megaconstellations are preparing to roll out a domestic service; China’s long-established navigation and positioning constellation has completed an upgrade; and China’s new commercial resupply spacecraft are moving closer to launch.

They’ve been busy — and they’re getting really good at this stuff.