BEIJING – China’s remarkable ascent in the global space arena is being fueled by a strategic emphasis on technological self-reliance and groundbreaking innovation, according to senior aerospace engineer Liu Zheng. The comments were delivered on March 7, 2026, at the Great Hall of the People ahead of a plenary meeting of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee.
Liu, a member of the country’s top political advisory body and a senior engineer at the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, articulated that the nation’s space sector has undergone a fundamental transformation—evolving from a position of following international leaders to pioneering uncharted territories. This shift necessitates an unwavering commitment to independent research and development to maintain competitive advantage in the new space era.
Detailing recent achievements, Liu highlighted a landmark collaboration between his corporation, domestic universities, and machine tool manufacturers. This consortium successfully engineered China’s first specialized compound processing machine tool for manufacturing rocket barrel sections. Crucially, the equipment operates on a domestically developed numerical control system, which has resulted in a twofold increase in both processing efficiency and precision. This breakthrough ensures that core technologies remain under Chinese control.
Looking to the future, Liu stated that his work will continue to focus on mastering core technologies for next-generation systems, particularly reusable space vehicles and advanced intelligent manufacturing processes. He pledged to uphold the spirit of innovation, contributing directly to national strategic goals of establishing China as a leading space power.