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An Australian defense contractor specializing in satellite tracking services has reported hundreds of Chinese space-based surveillance assets monitoring major military exercises hosted by Australia. The data collected by EOS’ Space Systems division reveals that Chinese satellites have made thousands of passes over the country and its surrounding areas in recent months.

The surveillance activities were focused on the 2023 iterations of the Talisman Sabre exercise, as well as the recently concluded maritime-centric Malabar exercise, both of which involve participation from the United States and other countries. These exercises showcase the high-end capabilities of Australia and its allies, making them of particular interest to China.

China’s interest in these exercises is not surprising considering its goal to attain a level of space-based capabilities comparable to the United States. The Chinese government has made significant efforts to develop its space-based surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, resulting in a fleet of over 260 ISR satellites by the end of 2021. This fleet is second only to the United States and represents a doubling of China’s in-orbit systems since 2018.

While there are discrepancies in the exact counting of Chinese ISR assets, it is evident that China now possesses a vast number of surveillance satellites. This has eroded the historical dominance of the United States and its close allies, including Australia, in space-based ISR capabilities.

China’s growing space-based ISR capabilities have been achieved through the use of both indigenous satellites and commercial agreements. The country has recognized the high demand for remote sensing data and has leveraged falling technology costs to rapidly expand its satellite fleet.

The proliferation of Chinese ISR satellites raises concerns about potential security risks. Foreign commercial imagery companies, some of which are state-owned or partially state-owned, may sell sensitive information to hostile non-state actors or foreign powers. This highlights the need for enhanced regulations and precautions in the use of satellite imagery for national security interests.

In conclusion, the Chinese space-based surveillance of military exercises in Australia highlights the diminishing advantage of the West in the field of satellite ISR capabilities. China’s significant investment and rapid expansion in this domain have positioned it as a major player in space-based surveillance and monitoring.

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