Space Force Reveals China Is Practicing For Space Warfare and Space Dogfights In Low Earth Orbit

A top Space Force general, Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein, revealed that Chinese satellites have been conducting “dogfighting” exercises in low Earth orbit. This operation involved maneuvers where satellites moved in, out, and around each other in synchronized patterns, showcasing China’s growing capability in on-orbit space operations.

These activities were observed using commercial systems, highlighting not just the technological advancements of China but also the increasing competition in space between major powers.

The specific incident discussed by Guetlein took place in 2024 and involved five Chinese spacecraft, including three Shiyan-24C experimental satellites and two others, Shijian-605 A and B. Guetlein’s comments were elaborated by a service spokesperson, detailing how these satellites performed complex maneuvers, known as rendezvous and proximity operations. Such maneuvers are critical for capabilities like inspecting, repairing, or potentially interfering with other satellites.

Guetlein contextualized the Chinese satellite maneuvers within a broader framework of aggressive space behaviors by U.S. adversaries. He mentioned Russia’s 2019 “nesting doll” demonstration, where a single satellite released another, which then tailed a U.S. satellite closely. These activities underscore the diminishing gap in space capabilities between the U.S. and its competitors, a gap that was once vast in favor of the U.S., but now poses significant challenges to American space superiority.

The increasing activity and sophistication of space operations by nations like China and Russia are prompting the U.S. Space Force to adapt its strategies. Guetlein emphasized the need for the U.S. to rethink its approach to space operations to maintain superiority, especially as space capabilities are crucial for supporting terrestrial military operations. This shift includes both defensive measures to protect U.S. satellites and offensive strategies to deter or mitigate threats in space.