Orbital rivalry — the challenge of China’s space power
This article examines China's growing space capabilities and its potential for orbital warfare. It highlights Beijing's development of anti-satellite weapons and its long-term goals for lunar and asteroid exploration.
Why it matters
The weaponization of space poses significant risks to global communications, financial markets, and national security infrastructure.
China’s expanding counter-space capabilities are a cause for concern. While no conflict has ever been fought in space, the incentive to influence activities on earth by controlling outer space remains a potential trigger for future confrontation. Beijing’s development of anti-satellite missiles and co-orbital systems blurs the line between routine space operations and counter-space activities.
The framing focuses heavily on the threat posed by China's military expansion in space.
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