China conducted a Long March 4C launch at 0447 GMT, 29 January from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, Northern China. This mission placed the second YAOGAN 31 satellite triplet into LEO. These satellites are officially for carrying out “electromagnetic environment surveys” however, It is believed by analysts that they in fact carry out an naval intelligence function. Comparable to the USA’s NOSS series of satellites.
The Long March 4C rocket lifting-off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. With permission of Xinhua.