China launched a Long March 3B on Thursday, November 12 at 15:54 UTC carrying the Tiantong 2 mission from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwestern China.

Once in orbit and connected to Tiantong 01, the two satellites will provide stable satellite phone coverage in all weather conditions for China and surrounding areas. The independently designed and built satphone system will be operated by China Telecom.

A third satellite is expected to join the constellation in the coming years.

More Information

CASC press release (Chinese)

CAST press release (Chinese)

CGTN news article 

Tiantong-1 info page (Gunter’s Space Page)