US Claims of Chinese 'Dogfighting' Disputed by Experts

On December 26, 2023, a Long March-11 carrier rocket successfully launched three satellites off the coast of Guangdong Province, China. A recent assertion by a US Space Force official suggested that Chinese satellites were involved in "dogfighting" maneuvers in low Earth orbit, which has received significant criticism, even from American experts. They questioned the allegations, pointing out that the US also engages in similar tactics, implying that the accusations may reflect a budget-driven strategy rather than a factual basis.

Michael A. Guetlein, the Vice Chief of Space Operations at the US Space Force, mentioned during a defense conference that five objects in space were observed maneuvering together, which he described as "dogfighting." He elaborated that such operations, taking place in 2024, involved various Chinese satellites, including the Shiyan-24C and Shijian-6 satellites, used for experimental purposes and technology testing, respectively. However, experts have expressed skepticism about the use of the term "dogfighting," arguing that movements in space do not mimic traditional aerial combat between fighter jets due to the unique dynamics involved.

CNN highlighted the potential misconceptions surrounding the term. Experts suggested that the close maneuvers could indicate various objectives, such as in-space servicing, refueling, or even surveillance, rather than necessarily proving hostile intentions. Victoria Samson, from the Secure World Foundation, remarked that labeling China's activities as "dogfighting" could inaccurately imply aggression, especially since the US engages in similar maneuvers.

Additionally, Guetlein discussed various concerning activities by competing nations in space, referencing prior examples from Russia that illustrated the evolving nature of satellite operations. His statements coincide with the Space Force's intensified focus on establishing supremacy in space as global competition increases. Recent funding challenges for the Space Force, with a budget of $28.7 billion approved, have also influenced the narrative, as Chinese analysts suggest this rhetoric serves to promote fears about China and Russia to secure additional funding for military enhancements.

Contrary to these claims, Chinese military experts assert that their nation’s space endeavors are peaceful and aimed at advancing human technology. They emphasize the importance of satellite maneuverability for tasks such as debris cleanup and recovery, which are essential for sustainable future space exploration. This initiative, they argue, demonstrates a commitment to peaceful uses of space while tackling challenges posed by space debris and defunct satellites that humanity will face as exploration continues.