U.S. Sanctions Chinese Firm Over Wagner Ties Amid Space Tensions
The U.S. Government has imposed sanctions on Changguang Satellite Technology (CGST) for allegedly aiding Russia's Wagner mercenary group. Meanwhile, China's space activities have escalated, raising concerns about potential threats to U.S. assets in orbit.
CGST, a Chinese company, was sanctioned in 2023 for allegedly providing imagery to the Russian mercenary group PMC Wagner. This move by the U.S. Government highlights growing tensions between the two countries in the space domain.
China's space activities have been increasingly active. A Chinese Shiyan-12 satellite recently made a close approach to a U.S. early warning satellite at geosynchronous orbit. This incident, coupled with other 'cat and mouse' activities involving U.S., Chinese, and Russian satellites, has raised eyebrows. China's growing need for space-based space situational awareness, including Non-Earth Imaging (NEI), is believed to be a driving factor.
CGST's Jilin-1 satellites have demonstrated advanced capabilities. They can aim, track, stabilize, and capture clear imagery at high speeds. The company aims to expand its Jilin-1 constellation from 138 to 300 satellites. Recently, CGST published images of a Maxar Worldview Legion 2 satellite taken by its Jilin-1 satellites, showcasing their imaging prowess.
Adding to the intrigue, the recently-launched Shiyan-29 satellite has been tracked in an unusual orbit just above GEO with an exceptional inclination of 28.5 degrees. Operated by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), this experimental satellite is believed to be testing new systems and assessing capabilities.
The U.S. Government's sanctions on CGST and the close approach of Chinese satellites to U.S. assets in orbit underscore the growing strategic importance of space. As China's space capabilities advance, with satellites like Jilin-1 and Shiyan-29 pushing technological boundaries, international scrutiny and potential tensions are set to increase.
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