
TOKYO/HONG KONG -- China is ramping up a campaign to nurture space startups in an attempt to solidify its technological base and grab the lead in the emerging sector of small satellites and low-cost rocket launches.
Among the highest-profile startups is Shanghai-based LinkSure Network. Founded in 2013, LinkSure is trying to build a constellation of 272 satellites by 2026 to provide satellite-based internet service around the world, with the first satellite set for launch later this year. The company's core members come from a Chinese space agency and the central government.