China’s space program took a major stride this past week as two of its satellites, Shijian-21 and Shijian-25, reportedly docked together more than 20,000 miles above Earth in geosynchronous orbit. This maneuver, which could have been the country’s first high-altitude attempt at refueling a satellite while in orbit, has raised concerns among U.S. officials about Beijing’s growing capabilities in space.
According to news outlet Ars Technica, the satellites appeared to move closer together before becoming indistinguishable, suggesting a potential refueling or reconfiguration of systems in orbit. While Chinese officials have not released any updates on the mission, civilian satellite trackers have observed the unusual behavior of the two satellites. The docking in geosynchronous orbit, which sits at an altitude of approximately 22,236 miles, highlights the strategic importance of this region for military and commercial operations, as satellites in this orbit maintain a fixed view of the Earth and can provide critical information for military applications such as early warning of missile attacks.
U.S. Space Force satellites reportedly moved closer to observe the maneuver, indicating heightened interest from Washington in China’s advancements. The military branch has also expressed concerns about China’s investment in space-based weapons, including kinetic strikes, radio-frequency jamming, and directed energy systems, which could be used to disable enemy satellites. General Chance Saltzman, head of the U.S. Space Force, has stated that China’s progress in space is ‘mind-boggling’ and warned that the U.S. is on a path to losing its dominance in orbit.
China’s efforts in space are part of a broader military strategy, with the country having increased its military spending by 7% this year to support its space capabilities. The potential for satellite disablement and the use of directed energy weapons raise serious concerns about the implications for global security and the future of space operations. While the U.S. is set to perform its first orbital refueling mission for military satellites as early as next summer, it remains to be seen whether it can maintain its technological edge in space in the face of China’s rapid advancements.