Beijing sets out to conquer space
China's expanding space sector is often portrayed in the West as a possible threat. A closer look reveals a growing market in which private and state-owned enterprises contend with a number of challenges. - 2026/09 / article
China's burgeoning space industry has been a subject of both fascination and concern in the Western world. While the government-backed sector aims to advance technological capabilities, it is often portrayed as a potential threat, particularly to the United States. However, a deeper examination reveals a complex market with both achievements and challenges.
On December 3, 2025, China celebrated a significant milestone in its space endeavors. The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert witnessed a triumphant moment as the Zhuque-3 launch vehicle successfully delivered its payload to orbit. The achievement was met with widespread applause, followed by a warning light indicating abnormal combustion during the rocket's recovery.
Despite the setback, LandSpace, the company behind the Zhuque-3, highlighted technological advancements such as the parallel operation of nine engines, stage separation using a pneumatic system, and laser-welded stainless steel propellant tanks.
Media coverage of China's space activities often emphasizes competition with Elon Musk's SpaceX, reflecting the prevailing narrative of a space race. A search of recent articles using specific keywords revealed that 18 out of 37 pieces from reputable publications focused on Chinese-US rivalry or military space threats. These narratives are particularly prevalent in US political circles, with organizations like the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission expressing concerns about China's growing manufacturing capability in the space sector.
The space threat narrative has its roots in early 2000s warnings of a "Space Pearl Harbor," echoed in government strategy documents. This perspective gained traction during a period marked by concerns over China's increasing influence in various domains. Despite these concerns, China's space sector continues to make significant strides, driven by a mix of state support and private enterprise.
As the country navigates the complexities of its space industry, balancing technological progress with international relations remains a delicate task.
Written by urgent.news from Le Monde diplomatique (English)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
