
China's private company Landspace has taken a significant step toward launching the country's first reusable rocket. Testing confirmed the new system's readiness for flight, expected later this year.
On October 20, 2025, the stainless steel Suzaku-3 rocket completed a static fire test. This test ignited the engine while the rocket was secured to the launch pad.
The next step will be vertical integration of the rocket, after which engineers will conduct technical checks before attempting the first orbital launch and first-stage recovery.
The Suzaku-3's design is reminiscent of SpaceX's Falcon 9. Nine Landspace-developed Tianque-12A engines are used for orbital launches. All engines are fueled by liquid methane and liquid oxygen (LOX), a more environmentally friendly fuel than the kerosene used by the Falcon 9.