LIVE UPDATES
A Chinese state-owned enterprise has launched the first batch of satellites for a mega-constellation designed to rival US company SpaceX's Starlink's near-global internet network, according to a state-backed newspaper.
The launch marks an important step in Beijing's strategic goal of creating its own version of Starlink, a growing commercial broadband constellation used by consumers, companies and government agencies.
The competition to occupy Earth's lower orbits also has military implications, with the potential to affect the balance of power between warring countries.
