Construction begins on rocket research & assembly center

The new-generation launch vehicle industrialization base is a key, hi-tech hub focused on new-generation carrier rocket research and production for military and civil use. The center will focus on R&D and assembly of the new-generation 5-m carrier rocket. Work is under way on the first phase of the project - a storage tank welding assembly factory that is due for completion by 2009.

The new-generation launch vehicle industrialization base, also one of this year's key industrial projects in Tianjin, is located in the west of the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA).

It's been smooth sailing for the project since it was launched on October 30, 2007. The first-phase construction of about 200,000 sq m meets the requirements for test manufacturing, general assembly and test launching of the new-generation vehicle. The second phase may cover an area of 300,000 sq m, which will be constructed in accordance with national aviation industry demand.