WASHINGTON: China is testing satellite “dogfighting,” according to the US Space Force. This involves synchronized maneuvers of multiple space objects.
General Michael A. Guetlein revealed five satellites executed complex, controlled movements. He described it as practicing “on-orbit” space operations.
The exact goal remains unclear, but analysts warn it may involve counterspace technology. This could impact global navigation and communication.
Destroying or disabling satellites may disrupt military and civilian operations. Space has become vital for global security and technology.
Growing Threat
China’s rapid space advancements worry the US. It’s closing the technological gap in space-based military operations.
Guetlein said China and Russia have “exquisite” jamming and laser-dazzling technologies. These can interfere with surveillance and communication.
Some satellites reportedly grapple and tow other objects, raising concerns about potential offensive operations.
He emphasized the need for US deterrence capabilities to maintain strategic space superiority.
Space is now the most complex and challenging strategic domain, according to the US Space Force.
China’s Response
China has provided limited public details on these experimental satellites. It claims peaceful intentions for space operations.
Its 2019 white paper included protecting “security interests in outer space” among national defense objectives.
China has consistently opposed an arms race in space, maintaining that it supports peaceful exploration.
CNN reached out to Chinese officials but has not received any comment.
The Space Force reported the “dogfighting” incident involved Shiyan-24C and Shijian-6 satellites in 2024.
Maneuvering Risks
Experts debate the term “dogfighting” for satellite maneuvers. Space dynamics differ from aerial fighter jet combat.
These movements, called “rendezvous and proximity operations,” have peaceful and military applications.
Satellites can refuel, conduct repairs, or clear debris. However, close maneuvers raise concerns about interference capabilities.
Clayton Swope of CSIS noted that approaching another satellite allows for jamming or direct attacks.
China has been launching more satellites capable of sophisticated movements, he added.
US Perspective
There’s no public evidence of China using space weapons against military targets, according to the Secure World Foundation.
However, China has conducted similar maneuvers before, though involving fewer satellites.
Russia and the US also engage in proximity operations with their own and foreign satellites.
Victoria Samson of SWF stated that calling this “dogfighting” could wrongly imply hostility.
She noted the US has also performed close approaches and rendezvous with satellites.
Future Uncertainty
The US has no acknowledged satellite weaponization program but has tested similar technologies.
It has conducted non-offensive approaches to both its own and foreign satellites.
Samson said commercial space monitoring services rarely disclose US satellite operations.
The debate continues over whether China’s maneuvers signal a military threat or routine space testing.
As space competition intensifies, countries must balance security and peaceful exploration.
