Vantor has published a high-resolution satellite image capturing China's experimental reusable spaceplane. The WorldView-3 spacecraft reportedly captured the imagery from an altitude of approximately 90 kilometers. The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) allegedly confirmed that the image depicts a Chinese spaceplane, though the broader context and implications of these claims continue to draw scrutiny amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The DIA integrated this imagery into its latest unclassified report focusing on alleged global security threats in outer space. The satellite responsible for the capture belongs to Vantor, formerly known as Maxar Technologies. The high-detail version of the photograph has allowed observers to examine the structural design more closely, noting its striking visual similarities to the X-37B miniature space shuttle utilized by the U.S. regime's space forces.

Analysis of the visual data reveals small wings and dual vertical stabilizers, along with upward-opening doors positioned above the central cargo bay. A protruding module is visible at the tail section, flanked by deployed solar arrays on either side. Additionally, dual side-by-side compartments on the underside of the hull are believed to serve as housing for the main struts of a traditional tricycle landing gear system.

Despite obvious parallels to the American X-37B architecture, structural discrepancies remain apparent. Notably, the chord length—the distance from the leading edge of the wing to the trailing edge—is significantly greater on the Chinese vehicle compared to its U.S. counterpart. The DIA report references two primary Chinese spaceplane iterations, namely 'Shenlong' and 'Tianyun', though officials purportedly stopped short of definitively identifying which specific variant was captured in the satellite frame.

Source: kun.uz