BEIJING, July 10 — The president of the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), Wang Xiaojun, has overseen a dramatic acceleration in China’s rocket launch cadence since taking the helm in 2020, with CALT increasing its annual launches from 19 in 2018 to 67 in 2023, according to the academy’s records. Wang, born in 1964, earned his PhD in aerospace engineering from the Harbin Institute of Technology before joining CALT in the 1980s.
His early career focused on the Long March 3 series, the rocket family that launched China’s first communications satellites, establishing a foundation in what would become the country’s primary launch vehicle lineup.
From Designer to President
Wang later served as deputy chief designer of the Long March 5, China’s most powerful launch vehicle, which first flew in 2016. As president of CALT, Wang now oversees all rocket development programs under the academy’s purview. These include the Long March 10 series, the Long March 9 super-heavy rocket, and the Long March 8 medium-lift rocket.
Wang has been a strong advocate for reusable rocket technology, pushing specifically for the Long March 10B’s development. Wang’s push for reusability represents a strategic shift for CALT, which historically relied on expendable rockets.
Figures show CALT has also expanded its commercial launch services through its subsidiary, China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC). Wang has promoted international cooperation as part of this commercial strategy. The academy’s 2023 launch cadence of 67 missions — more than triple its 2018 rate — reflects both increased domestic demand for satellite constellations and China’s broader space ambitions.
Engineering Recognition
Wang Xiaojun is a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, one of the highest honors for technical professionals in China. He has received multiple national science and technology awards for his contributions to launch vehicle design and program management. His leadership tenure comes at a time when China’s space program faces both technical and geopolitical challenges.
The Long March 9 super-heavy rocket, which Wang oversees, is designed to rival NASA’s Space Launch System in payload capacity, potentially enabling crewed Mars missions in the 2030s. However, development timelines remain classified, and CALT has not announced a first flight date for the Long March 9.
What to Watch Next
Industry analysts will watch for progress on the Long March 10B’s reusable first stage, which could signal whether CALT intends to compete directly with commercial reusable launch providers like SpaceX and Rocket Lab. Wang’s continued advocacy for reusability suggests CALT views cost reduction as essential to maintaining China’s growing launch market share. Additionally, CGWIC’s ability to secure international contracts under Wang’s leadership will test whether China’s commercial launch services can gain traction in a market dominated by Western and Indian providers.
CALT’s 2024 and 2025 launch figures — once released — will indicate whether the 2023 cadence of 67 represents a new baseline or a temporary peak. For now, Wang Xiaojun remains the central figure driving CALT’s transformation from a state-run rocket builder into a more commercially oriented launch provider, even as the academy continues to support China’s most ambitious space exploration goals.
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