China's new generation manned carrier rocket is expected to make its debut launch in 2027 as the development phase gathers pace, according to the chief designer of the Long March-2F carrier.

The new rocket is being developed to launch the next generation of manned spacecraft and planned lunar landers as China's ambitious space exploration program continues to aim higher.

Rong Yi, chief designer of the Long March-2F carrier rocket at the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, said that plans are progressing smoothly.

"The rocket will have a core diameter of five meters, tied up with a booster of the same diameter. To meet the demands of manned lunar landing, its carrying capacity on the lunar trajectory will reach 27 tons, while around 70 tons for low-Earth orbit," she said.

Rong said engineers will draw experience from the past success of the Long March 2F carrier rocket as they work on this new model, with advanced technologies like intelligent flight programming also added to improve its in-flight reliability.

"With regard to intelligent flight, there will be some practical project applications of the rocket to enhance the probability of success in missions and to ensure the safety of astronauts. In addition, the rocket will help to further optimize the operation costs of China's space station, so the first stage of the rocket is designed to be reusable, and there is an innovative plan for the reuse," Rong said.