The US and China are developing satellites capable of tracking, capturing or disabling other spacecraft

The US and China are intensifying their military competition in Earth’s orbit, where they are developing satellites capable of tracking, inspecting, capturing or disabling other spacecraft. At stake is the protection and control of infrastructure supporting military communications, navigation, surveillance and missile defense.

In June, China tested complex maneuvers after an unmanned spacecraft launched a small satellite that approached another Chinese spacecraft and maneuvered around it. Beijing had previously demonstrated the ability to capture a defunct satellite and move it to another orbit.

Technologies under development include satellite refueling, autonomous tracking of other spacecraft and the simultaneous management of large groups of satellites. These capabilities may have civilian uses, such as repairing or removing hazardous objects, but they can be quickly adapted for military operations.

US officials warn that Beijing is developing systems capable of interfering with or destroying space-based targets. Washington is preparing orbital interceptors, ground-based electromagnetic weapons and coordinated operations with allies, including the United Kingdom.

The confrontation is not limited to close approaches between satellites. Electronic jamming, cyberattacks, lasers and antisatellite missiles are part of the scenarios being analyzed. Although China says it supports the peaceful use of space, technological developments are gradually turning orbit into a new area of strategic competitionச்ச.