Orbital rivalry — the challenge of China’s space power

The article discusses China's expanding counter-space capabilities, including anti-satellite missiles, co-orbital systems, and laser-based systems, which pose a significant challenge to global space security and India's vital interests. It highlights China's dual ambition of technological competitiveness and military weaponization of space, aiming for lunar landings, nuclear-powered shuttles, and solar power systems. The piece details the implications for India, emphasizing its lesser redundancy in satellites compared to China and the potential for temporary or crippling damage to Indian space assets like CARTOSAT/RISAT and NavIC. It concludes by suggesting measures for India to safeguard its interests, such as expanding its space industry, disaggregating large satellite programs, strengthening ground asset protection, enhancing data-sharing with partners, and clearly defining red lines.