Researchers affiliated with the Central Military Commission in China have called for greater integration of commercial space technologies with military systems. This comes in light of trends among strategic rivals, particularly the US, who have successfully leveraged advancements from private firms like SpaceX for military enhancements. The importance of dual-use technology is underscored by the growing role of commercial satellites in military operations, raising the need for China to bolster its own capabilities.

The US military's active engagement with commercial technologies, specifically the Starlink network and other satellite services, highlights a shifting dynamic in military operations where collaboration with private sector innovations is becoming crucial. SpaceX’s plan to launch one million satellites for AI data centers serves as an example of how rapidly the commercialization of space is evolving and being harnessed for military effectiveness. This development pushes the national defense strategies of other countries, including China, to reassess and adapt their approaches.

The push for dual-use satellite applications in China reflects a strategic imperative to ensure national security and technological competitiveness amid growing tensions with the US. As researchers advocate for this integration, it signals a recognition that the intersection of commercial and military space capabilities will shape future conflicts and power dynamics on the global stage.