The militarization of space involves not just weapons in orbit but also the military uses of space, including ground infrastructure. Most analyses focus on major powers like the U.S. and China, particularly in the context of the space race.
China has become a formidable global presence in space, driven by investments, innovation, and collaboration with Global South countries. This approach not only brings commercial benefits but also aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and increase China’s influence in global institutions, notably through ground-based and satellite infrastructure in regions like Latin America and Africa. These bilateral satellite cooperations raise questions about their strategic implications for the U.S.
Since the 1980s, China has partnered with various Global South nations, starting with Brazil. This evolution includes collaborations with countries like Venezuela, Nigeria, Egypt, and Namibia, focusing on satellite construction, infrastructure, training, and financing. Although these projects are framed as developmental initiatives, their dual-use potential warrants scrutiny. Enhanced ground infrastructure could provide China greater capabilities for telemetry, tracking, satellite command, and space situational awareness.
The militarization trend is underscored by confirmed U.S. space control weapons and similar advancements from China and Russia. Indeed, China has tested anti-satellite (ASAT) systems, creating significant debris and demonstrating advanced military capabilities. With multiple countries developing counterspace technologies, space militarization appears inevitable, raising concerns about China’s growing infrastructure in the Global South.
Ground stations like those in Namibia illustrate varying levels of control over space systems. The Windhoek station, managed by trained Namibians, relies on Chinese technical support, while the Swakopmund station, providing telemetry and tracking, is directly linked to China’s military space, showcasing the dual-use nature of these facilities.
China’s assistance extends to Ethiopia, including a donated satellite and supporting ground station capabilities, as well as collaborations with Egypt for satellite assembly and ground processing centers. The deep-space tracking station in Neuquén, Argentina, presents significant dual-use potential, supporting Chinese lunar missions while also enabling intelligence gathering and signal interception.
Together, these facilities form an interconnected international infrastructure that would bolster China’s operational advantages in strategic regions. Thus, both the U.S. and Europe must systematically analyze the strategic implications of this infrastructure in shaping future space dynamics.
