China's Xinhua News Agency reported today that China has completed construction of an aerospace observation and control station in Tarawa, the capital of the Republic of Kiribati. Tarawa is remembered by many as the scene of intense fighting during World War Two. This is the first space control installation built by China outside its own territory. According to the report, the station "will become a part of China's space monitoring and control network for supporting satellite and carrier rocket launchings. The station is equipped with advanced remote sensing and receiving apparatus, equipment for measuring satellite orbits, and communication equipment." Since construction began last January, Chinese technicians have become a permanent presence in Kiribati. Until now China has concentrated on the launch business, becoming an aggressive player in the international launch market.