Chinese satellites have been observed practicing ‘dogfighting’ maneuvers in low Earth orbit, indicating advancements in their space capabilities. General Guetlein noted a significant reduction in the capability gap between the U.S. and its adversaries, urging a change in strategy to ensure continued superiority in space operations.

A prominent general from the Space Force revealed that Chinese satellites have been practicing “dogfighting” maneuvers in low Earth orbit, showcasing their advancement in tactical and technological space capabilities. During the McAleese Defense Programs Conference in Washington, Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein explained that commercial systems had observed five separate objects in space performing coordinated maneuvers, signifying China’s growing proficiency in on-orbit operations.

According to a spokesperson, the operation, which took place in 2024, involved three Shiyan-24C experimental satellites along with two additional Chinese experimental spacecraft, the Shijian-605 A and B, believed to have signals intelligence missions. This exercise demonstrated complex maneuvers known as rendezvous and proximity operations, which include navigating around other objects and inspecting them.

Gen. Guetlein also expressed concerns regarding the shrinking capability gap between the U.S. military and its near-peer adversaries, citing Russia’s 2019 demonstration of a “nesting doll” capability, where one satellite released a smaller spacecraft that stalked a U.S. satellite. He emphasized that the previous large capability gap is narrowing, urging a reevaluation of the U.S. approach towards space operations to maintain an advantageous position.

As the Space Force intensifies efforts to establish dominance in space, Gen. Guetlein reiterated that the mandate of the Space Force is to ensure space superiority for the joint force. He stated that space operations are vital for joint military operations, emphasizing the necessity of both defensive and offensive measures to protect U.S. satellite capabilities.

China’s recent demonstration of coordinated satellite maneuvers highlights significant advancements in their space capabilities, prompting concerns regarding the diminishing superiority of the U.S. military in space. General Guetlein’s remarks emphasize the need for the U.S. Space Force to adapt its strategies to maintain space dominance and protect its interests against increasingly sophisticated adversarial tactics.

Original Source: www.defensenews.com

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