[2][3] The PLAASF consolidates all the PLA's space-based C4ISR systems, as well as administering all the existing launch sites, and all other military satellites and space assets.

The China Daily referred to it as the People's Liberation Army Space Force before its official English name was released.

Central staff sections include: The PLAASF controls all of China's military satellites, as a well as the BeiDou satellite navigation system.

As is common in all countries with significant space forces, exact data on China's military satellites' functions is hard to come by.

Often, launches are disguised and receive civilian designators, at least for a period.