U.S. Gears Up for Space War Amid Rising Tensions with China
At the U.S. Space Command headquarters in Colorado Springs, military planners are preparing for the possibility of the first major space war. The year 2027 looms large. This is when the U.S. believes Chinese President Xi Jinping may have instructed his forces to be ready for a Taiwan invasion.
Like wars in Ukraine and Gaza, any space-related conflict would depend heavily on satellite systems. It could involve electronic jamming, AI-driven drones, and spacecraft able to shadow or even disable others.
Although much of this preparation remains classified, key developments have emerged. In recent years, the U.S. accused Russia of designing a nuclear orbital weapon. Meanwhile, a secret U.S. spaceplane landed after 434 days in orbit. Additionally, former President Donald Trump proposed a “Golden Dome” missile defence shield, now a growing focus for the military.
China’s Ambitions and the Future of Space Stations
In May, a Chinese scientist suggested arming the manned Tiangong space station with attack drones for self-defence. This idea reflects China’s growing concern over potential space threats.
As international tensions rise, cooperation aboard the International Space Station is declining. With the ISS set for decommissioning in 2030, Tiangong may soon become the only continuously crewed outpost in orbit.
If Tiangong is armed—even for defensive purposes—it could mark a significant shift in the geopolitics of space.
Private Sector and Strategic Competition
Today’s space race differs from the Cold War. Many more nations and private firms are active. SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, plays a major role in both U.S. government and military operations. Its Starlink system is vital for communication, including in conflict zones like Ukraine.
However, Musk’s tense relations with Donald Trump and threats to pull critical hardware have raised questions about long-term reliability. In response, several governments are exploring alternatives like the OneWeb network.
Recent political shifts also affect space strategy. The White House withdrew support for NASA nominee Jared Isaacman, a Musk ally. The Trump administration is now seeking military input in NASA leadership—fueling debate over the agency’s independence.
The Race Beyond Earth
In April, China launched a three-satellite system in cis-lunar orbit, which could support lunar missions or monitor lower-Earth satellites. This mirrors U.S. efforts to expand its presence beyond Earth.
U.S. Space Force General Michael Gutlein recently reported sightings of five Chinese space objects engaging in coordinated manoeuvres—described as “dogfighting in space.”
There are growing concerns over satellite-tracking missions. In May, a Russian satellite, Cosmos-2588, was observed closely tailing a U.S. government satellite. Analysts say it could have the capability to destroy it.
China has also accused others of intruding near Tiangong. In response, Beijing is developing robotic drones to intercept and move unidentified craft away from its station.
Preparing for Conflict in Orbit
U.S. Space Command has taken on a more open stance about preparing for war. General Stephen Whiting noted the 2027 Taiwan threat has increased urgency across the command. Even though Indo-Pacific Command would lead any Taiwan conflict, SPACECOM would be vital from day one.
General Whiting explained that his domain begins 100 kilometres above Earth and stretches into deep space. He confirmed that his team is actively training and preparing for combat scenarios. SPACECOM also collaborates with NATO, Britain, Australia, and private firms to monitor threats and secure space operations.
Satellites remain critical to global infrastructure—from financial markets to missile detection. In any major war, they would likely be targets, making preparedness essential.
“There has never been a war in space, and we don’t want one,” General Whiting said. “But we must be ready.”
with inputs from Reuters