China Could Deploy Space-Based Directed-Energy Weapons by 2030, US Intelligence Warns

China could deploy space-based directed-energy weapons capable of disabling enemy satellites by 2030, according to a US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) report cited by The War Zone (TWZ).

The intelligence assessment suggests that these systems could target optical sensors aboard spacecraft, either temporarily disrupting their operation or causing permanent damage. However, the technical specifications of China’s potential orbital weapons remain unknown, and the report provides no evidence that such systems have already been deployed.

US intelligence officials have identified China’s reusable Shenlong spacecraft as one possible platform for these weapons. The vehicle can remain in orbit for extended periods, adjust its trajectory and approach other objects in space.

Such a system could be informally compared to a Chinese version of Prometheus, drawing a parallel with Russia’s S-500 Prometheus air defense system. Its actual capabilities would depend on the technology employed.

Laser weapons could temporarily blind satellite optics or, at sufficient power levels, permanently damage sensitive components. Microwave systems, meanwhile, could interfere with onboard electronics or render them inoperable. The DIA also considers the possibility that Beijing is developing other types of directed-energy weapons, although their characteristics have not been disclosed.

The Pentagon’s concerns extend beyond potential orbital platforms. According to US intelligence assessments, China already possesses ground-based lasers capable of targeting satellites in low Earth orbit. Beijing is also improving its electronic warfare capabilities and anti-satellite missiles.

These developments pose a potential threat to Starlink and Starshield spacecraft. By the end of the decade, China’s counterspace capabilities could also extend to satellites operating at higher altitudes.

The DIA estimates that China could field space-based directed-energy systems and more powerful ground-based weapons by the late 2020s, potentially allowing it to threaten satellites in higher orbits.

At the same time, the Pentagon has highlighted the growing military space capabilities of Russia, Iran and North Korea.