At 16:23 China time on June 9, 2026, the improved Yao-6 variant of the Zhuque-2
carrier rocket lifted off from the Dongfeng Commercial Aerospace Innovation Test
Area, placing Qianfan DTC01 and China Mobile-02 into their planned orbit. It was
the Zhuque-2 series' eighth flight. The vehicle replaced pyrotechnic
stage-separation with pneumatic pushrods to boost safety and autonomous control.
Engine upgrades include 3D-printed integrated components and a thrust-modulation
device to improve stability and durability. The launch marks technical maturity;
the rocket has entered mass production and could support a denser annual launch
cadence.