China has created a new, powerful carrier rocket with military capabilities that can launch multiple satellites into space. The rocket supports China's strategy of marketing satellites, communications technologies and launch services overseas, especially to oil-producing countries, according to UPI. At the most recent Zhuhai Air Show, China introduced a high-capacity LM-5D carrier rocket with a diameter of 5 meters at the core section, bundled with one 2.25-meter-diameter booster and two 3.35-meter-diameter boosters. The carrier rocket has a length of 60 meters, a takeoff weight of 675,000 kilograms and the capacity to send targets of 10,000 kilograms into geostationary transfer orbit. The initial flight of the rocket is expected no later than 2014. This type of carrier rocket deserves attention, as its advanced upper stage can be integrated with a CZ-5 carrier rocket to directly blast designated equipment to medium Earth orbit and geostationary Earth orbit, or even lunar orbit. The rocket is capable of deploying multiple satellites and has outstanding capability for orbit maneuvering and orbit transfer. It can function in orbit for seven to 10 days. This advanced-upper-stage rocket is of critical importance for the People's Liberation Army in its research of orbit transfers and orbital killer satellites. The LM-5D will put China in a more favorable position, capable of competing with the United States and Russia.
