On October 23, the Institute of Modern Physics (IMP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) announced that the first demonstration unit of China’s new-generation medical heavy ion accelerator—the ultra-compact rotating beam heavy ion therapy system—has recently been successfully installed at the Huizhou Heavy Ion Medical Center in Guangdong Province. This state-of-the-art unit incorporates a cutting-edge disk-structured milliampere-level high-intensity linear injector, an ultra-short circumference rapid-cycling synchrotron, and the world’s first high-performance beam intelligent rotating delivery system. Occupying a compact footprint of just 1,200 square meters, the system is projected to treat 2,000 to 5,000 patients annually. This efficiency not only reduces construction and operational costs but also holds the potential to further lower treatment expenses for patients. Currently, the unit has entered the equipment testing phase, with clinical trials anticipated to commence by the end of 2026. Prior to this development, ten domestically produced medical heavy ion accelerators have already been deployed across the country, and as of the end of September 2026, nearly 5,000 patients have received treatment using this advanced technology.