Aligning United States and Chinese Space Policies

For AF Fellows Research Only--This topic will answer the question: What is the best U.S. approach to Space Defense Policy to ensure the Chinese People's Liberation Army are in step with American objectives and do not threaten peace in space? The destruction of a satellite on January 11, 2007 by the Chinese military sent shudders through the space fairing nations. The United States has relied upon the long-standing agreements made in the U.N. for an international legal agreement on, among other things, the prevention of the threat or use of force against space objects. The Chinese are currently working toward and have proven their ability to use capabilities include jamming satellite links or blinding satellite sensors, kinetic or conventional ASAT weapons, electro-magnetic pulse weapons, which can all be disruptive, can temporarily deny access, or can destroy space-derived products. The PLA, like the U.S. Air Force, fully expects any future conflict to include forms of war in space integrated with other military operations. The PLA has made substantial progress and will continue to develop advanced capabilities to engage in warfare in space. The PLA believes future war will combine information, firepower and mobility.