China Plans to Combat Starlink Satellites With Lasers

China has been intensifying its efforts to explore methods for neutralizing Starlink, the global satellite network developed by SpaceX.

According to the Associated Press, Chinese state media have been actively publishing reports that openly describe Starlink as a significant threat to the country’s national security.

Chinese experts view Starlink as a tool used by the United States for modern warfare – from data transmission and drone control to nuclear deterrence and space reconnaissance.

Among the countermeasures proposed by China are the use of powerful lasers (including those deployed from submarines), the creation of specialized ‘hacker’ satellites capable of intercepting or disabling Starlink satellites, as well as sabotage of the supply chain for components of this system.

The documents outlining these countermeasures also suggest less aggressive approaches – including diplomatic initiatives and international restrictions on private satellite networks.

The reason for Beijing’s interest lies in the rapid growth of Starlink’s presence in low Earth orbit. Of the more than eight thousand active satellites in LEO (low Earth orbit), two-thirds belong to this American system.

It has already proven its effectiveness in conflict zones – particularly in Ukraine, where Starlink provides reliable mobile communication for the military, changing the rules of the game on the battlefield.

China is trying to respond by creating its own alternative – a national satellite network, including the Guowang and Qianfan projects. At the same time, Chinese authorities are preparing for a scenario of direct confrontation in space.

According to Chinese strategists, blocking or destroying the Starlink satellite network would limit the flexibility and combat capabilities of the United States in the event of a conflict – for example, around Taiwan.

Militarnyi previously reported that China was conducting simulated satellite battles as part of preparations for potential space warfare.

According to U.S. Space Force (USSF) officials, American tracking systems recently detected five space objects executing synchronized and controlled maneuvers of unknown purpose.