China's Anti-Satellite Weapon Test

Abstract

On January 11, 2007, the People's Republic of China (PRC) conducted its first successful direct-ascent anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons test in destroying one of its own satellites in space. The test raised international concerns about more space debris. Longer-term, the test raised questions about China's capability and intention to attack U.S. satellites. The purpose of this CRS Report, based on open sources and interviews, is to discuss that ASAT test by China's military, the People's Liberation Army (PLA), and issues about U.S. assessments and policies. This report will not be updated.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 23, 2007
Accession Number
ADA468025

Entities

People

  • Shirley Kan

Organizations

  • Library of Congress

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Arms Control
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • International Relations
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Outer Space
  • Prompt Global Strike
  • Security
  • Space Debris
  • Space Objects
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • United States
  • United States Strategic Command

Readers

  • Aerospace Test and Evaluation
  • Asian Economic Studies
  • Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Space