US warns China is expanding its space toolkit with spaceplane and energy weapons
A rare satellite image of China’s secretive spaceplane has appeared in a new US intelligence report that warned Beijing was expanding its ability to track American forces and could deploy space-based directed-energy weapons by the late 2020s. The US Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) report published on Sunday included an image of the reusable spacecraft, credited to satellite imagery firm Maxar…
A new US intelligence report has revealed that China is expanding its space capabilities, including the development of a spaceplane and potential deployment of space-based directed-energy weapons by the late 2020s. The report, published by the US Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), includes an image of a reusable spacecraft identified as being similar to the US Space Shuttle, though it is believed to be unmanned and more akin to the smaller American X-37B.
The DIA report also stated that Chinese spaceplane missions have involved maneuvering close to companion satellites and releasing objects in orbit, indicating a higher level of maneuverability compared to traditional satellites. While no Chinese spacecraft has been publicly identified as carrying an operational directed-energy weapon, the DIA predicts that by the late 2020s, China may have more powerful ground-based directed-energy systems capable of affecting satellites beyond low Earth orbit.
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is reportedly interested in using satellite attacks to deter or prevent foreign intervention in regional conflicts, particularly over Taiwan. The report suggests that China could disrupt US satellites, such as those used for reconnaissance, communications, navigation, and early warning, potentially weakening the US ability to intervene in a conflict.
However, the timeline for China's development of space-based directed-energy weapons remains uncertain. While some experts believe China could achieve operational capability sooner, citing their reusable spacecraft, orbital maneuvers, and long-standing research in directed energy, others remain skeptical. The report acknowledges various obstacles, including weight, power requirements, and difficulties tracking targets.
Nonetheless, if these hurdles are overcome, directed-energy weapons could potentially interfere with or damage satellites without generating debris, reducing the danger to China's own space assets.
Beyond the development of directed-energy weapons, China's satellite network has more than tripled since 2018 to over 510 as of July. This expanding network, designed to improve worldwide surveillance and enable long-range strikes, could enhance the PLA's ability to monitor military bases, logistics hubs, and ships. However, the effectiveness of the network is contingent upon clear conditions, such as daytime, no cloud cover, and no jamming.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
