China keeps an eye on the skies as US Space Force marks 2nd anniversary
- Analysts say it will take years for the newest branch of the US armed forces to implement its plans but still needs watching
- An official military publication has warned that America is developing its ability to conduct space warfare
The USSF now has about 6,500 uniformed personnel, and operates missile detection networks and the Global Positioning System (GPS), as well as monitoring more than 4,500 active satellites in space for their safety. It is also in charge of technology with offensive uses, such as a satellite jamming system.
“The USSF has presented an impressive big picture – grand projects with great expectations since establishment – but so far they are still working on constructing its organisational structure and command chain, and the implementation of their master plans will take at least a few more years,” said Zhou Chenming, a researcher from the Yuan Wang military science and technology institute in Beijing.
Splitting the US Space Force from the air force would be a long and difficult process because it spelled a big loss of assets, resources and budget for the latter, Zhou said, adding that China had been watching how well trillions worth of former USAF assets, including GPS, had been transferred to the new service.
“Compared with two years ago, the US Space Force not only has had a clear space strategy and a policy direction, but also has made a lot of preparations for space warfare, especially having upgraded some strategically important space warfare weapons to enhance its combat capabilities,” the paper said. “We have to increase our vigilance.”
