China now has a satellite network that offers internet services like Starlink. A total of 18 satellites under the "Thousand Sail Constellation" program were launched by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology yesterday. It is the first step in the plan to launch 15,000 satellites by 2030.
Buruj Sirebu Layar is one of three constellations that China will launch to offer internet services to every point on earth. When all three systems are fully launched, another 23,000 satellites will be in orbit. All satellites will be launched into low earth orbit (LEO) which is also the orbit used by Starlink.
With a network owned by a local company, China can ensure non-stop service unlike the disruption experienced by Starlink customers in Russia after the technology restrictions were imposed. In addition to China, Europe will launch the IRIS² network while Amazon launched Project Kuiper last year with the same capabilities.