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An Australian defense contractor, EOS’ Space Systems division, has reported that it has tracked hundreds of Chinese space-based surveillance assets over Australia and its surrounding areas in recent months. These satellites have been gathering intelligence on major military exercises hosted by Australia, such as the Talisman Sabre and Malabar exercises. This highlights a decline in the West’s dominance in space-based surveillance capabilities.

EOS’ data indicates that Chinese satellites have been actively surveying the ground during these exercises, with over 300 satellites monitoring ground activities and over 3,000 overflights recorded since the start of the Malabar exercise. This demonstrates China’s significant interest in these multinational training events that showcase advanced capabilities possessed by Australia, the United States, and their allies.

China’s investment in space-based capabilities has paid off, as their satellite fleet now ranks second in quantity only to the United States, with over 260 systems in orbit as of 2021. Their ability to conduct surveillance on such a large scale is a direct result of their efforts to catch up with the US’s space capabilities.

While there may be discrepancies in the exact count of Chinese space-based ISR assets, it is evident that China now possesses a large number of satellites, making it the second-largest operator globally. This underscores the diminishing advantage the US has held for decades in this field.

China’s improvements in space-based ISR capabilities include the use of increasingly capable satellites with digital camera technology and space-based radar for all-weather coverage. These advancements enhance China’s monitoring capabilities and allow them to observe US aircraft carriers, expeditionary strike groups, and deployed air wings.

This development highlights the need for the US and its allies to adapt and invest in their space-based surveillance capabilities to maintain an edge in intelligence gathering and reconnaissance.

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