The successful test launch of the Shenzhou spacecraft has enhanced China's ability to conduct space surveillance and anti-ballistic missile operations, military experts said.
The launch marked a major victory for the PLA, according to a Hong Kong-based defence expert.
He pointed to the conspicuous role taken by top generals in charge of science and technology, including armament chief General Cao Gangchuan and his rocket specialist deputy, Lieutenant-General Hu Shixiang, at the Beijing command and control centre.
The flight had significant military implications, showing China had the essential space technology.
'The flight could mean a great deal for China's surveillance operations through military satellites, and its anti-ballistic missile capability,' the expert said.
Shenzhou, which was launched from Jiuquan Satellite Centre in Gansu province on Saturday, orbited the earth 14 times before landing in Inner Mongolia 21 hours later.
The expert said there were subtle changes in national priorities but funding would remain a major constraint to the space programme.
