China’s rapid expansion of its space military capabilities has raised concerns among US space officials, who liken the development to scenes from science fiction epics like Star Wars.

The number of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance satellites orbiting Earth has reportedly tripled, with experts worried about the potential for these assets to be used for military purposes, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

China’s growing satellite fleet, totaling around 350, is seen as a means to establish dominance in the area, potentially hindering Western forces and even facilitating actions like an invasion of Taiwan.

These satellites not only provide continuous intelligence to Chinese military leaders but also enable precise targeting of distant locations, making interference from Western powers more challenging, the Daily Star has reported.

American space commanders have emphasized China’s clear intent to project power in the Indo-Pacific, with concerns about the establishment of a “kill web” over the Pacific Ocean designed to track and target enemy forces.

Gen. Stephen Whiting of US Space Command warned of China’s rapid development of counterspace weapons, posing a significant risk to space capabilities.

Written by B.C. Begley