Synopsis
Here is a summary of the content related to space:
- The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) views space superiority as critical for conducting modern warfare. The PLA continues to invest in improving capabilities for space-based intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, satellite communications, satellite navigation, and meteorology.
- The PLA has a Space Systems Department responsible for military space operations. This department, sometimes called the Aerospace Force, conducts activities such as launching satellites and operating China’s space stations.
- China is developing anti-satellite capabilities including missiles, lasers, and orbiting robots that can disable or destroy satellites. This enhances China’s counterspace capabilities to deny adversaries access to space-based assets.
- In 2022, China conducted multiple launches to build up its Beidou navigation satellite system and data relay satellite system. It also continued human spaceflight missions including launching space station modules and conducting crewed missions.
- China’s expanding space activities support its goal of establishing a powerful space force and using space to build national strength. Space is seen as a key domain for modern warfare.
In summary, China views space as vital for military operations and is rapidly expanding its space capabilities for intelligence, communications, navigation and counterspace activities. The PLA is dedicated to enhancing China’s space power and using space to advance its military modernization.
