China's satellites practicing dogfighting maneuvers in space

The US Space Force has accused China of conducting "dogfighting" maneuvers in space. This term typically describes close-range battles between fighter jets. During a recent defense conference, the Space Force's vice chief, Michael Guetlein, mentioned they observed five objects in space moving in sync like a coordinated fight. Guetlein said these maneuvers involved three Chinese experimental satellites known as Shiyan-24C and two unidentified objects named Shijian-605 A and B. This activity was noted last year in low-Earth orbit and points to a possible increase in military capabilities among global powers in space. The Shijian-6 system is believed to gather electronic intelligence, such as eavesdropping on communications. Guetlein described how these satellites practice operations from one satellite to another. He also referenced Russia's similar satellite activities, which have involved following US satellites closely. Guetlein criticized both Russia and China for disregarding international agreements regarding safe space conduct. He warned that this behavior creates a growing "capability gap" between the US and its adversaries. This gap could risk US space assets and allow other nations to assert control in space. He emphasized the need for increased investment in space resources to maintain superiority.