China expands satellite fleet and directed energy capabilities, DIA warns

A report from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) indicates that China has tripled its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) satellite fleet since 2018. As of July, China had more than 510 ISR satellites in orbit, including those owned by commercial firms. This network is designed to enhance situational awareness and enable long-range strikes by monitoring and targeting U.S. and allied forces, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

The DIA also warns that by the end of the decade, China may deploy space-based directed energy weapons (DEWs). These systems, which could include lasers or high-powered microwaves, could complement existing ground-based weapons to disrupt, degrade, or damage satellites in various orbits. Such capabilities could allow for both reversible effects, such as jamming signals or blinding sensors, and non-reversible damage to orbital assets.