China tests world-first net-capture rocket recovery at sea

A Long March-10B first stage was caught in a net after launch on July 10, marking a new approach to reusable rocket technology.

Published 13 July 2026 · Topics: technology, research, innovation

China has carried out a first-of-its-kind rocket recovery using a net-capture system at sea. On 10 July, the first stage of a Long March-10B rocket was launched and then caught by the system, according to CGTN.

The test is being described as a breakthrough in reusable rocket technology. Rather than landing on a platform or drone ship, the booster was captured in a net, an approach not previously demonstrated in this context.

Reusable rockets are seen as a way to reduce the cost of space access, and several countries are pursuing different recovery methods. China's test adds a new technique to that effort.

The Long March-10B is part of China's broader rocket development programme. Further details of the mission and any future tests have not been disclosed.

As reported by CGTN.