Washington D.C. General Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, has raised concerns about China's increasing ability to attack and disable American satellites. Speaking at a recent defense forum, Saltzman emphasized that China is dedicating substantial resources to developing both ground-based and space-based weaponry designed to target satellites in orbit.
"They are heavily investing in this capability," Saltzman stated. He highlighted the potential impact of such attacks, which could disrupt vital communication networks, military operations, and navigation systems that rely on satellite technology. The general did not provide specific details about the types of weapons China is developing but alluded to a broad range of capabilities, including lasers, jammers, and co-orbital satellites designed to disable or destroy other spacecraft.
The Space Force is actively working to mitigate these threats through a combination of defensive measures, including hardening satellites against attack, developing redundant systems, and improving space domain awareness. Saltzman stressed the importance of maintaining a technological edge over potential adversaries and investing in research and development to stay ahead of evolving threats. The growing concern over China's anti-satellite capabilities underscores the increasing importance of space as a critical domain for national security.
Space Force Warns of China's Growing Anti-Satellite Capabilities
General Chance Saltzman, head of the U.S. Space Force, recently issued a warning about China's rapidly developing capabilities to disable American satellites. He stated that China is making significant investments in weapons systems both on Earth and in space that could target U.S. satellites. This poses a serious threat to national security and global communications. The Space Force is actively working to counter these threats and protect vital space assets.