Sunday, January 21, 2007

Chinese Anti-Satellite Prediction

In 2002, the Jamestown Foundation wrote an insightful analysis of China's PLA military build-up. Of particular interest was their take on PLA Anti-Satellite technology.

Military Sales to China: Going to Pieces

China has also successfully obtained Russian radar satellite technology to build its first modern radar satellite. This information was confirmed by Chinese officials at the Zhuhai show. The PRC's new HJ-1C radar satellite will use a Russian radar antenna combined with a Chinese satellite bus. Radar satellites can penetrate clouds to produce imagery and are ideal for finding ships at sea. And in regards to naval systems, the PLAN is making use of Russian technology and advice to improve its new nuclear powered and conventionally powered submarine designs. Both will likely use Russian submarine weapons like the Novator Club antiship missile.

FUTURE PLA WEAPONRY-- anti-satellite, direct ascent: British micro- and nano-satellite technology; PRC solid-fueled mobile ICBM-based launch system.

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