China Warns Against Japan’s New Space Defense Guidelines, Accuses Tokyo of Military Expansion

BEIJING: China has issued a sharp warning to Japan over its newly released space defense strategy, accusing Tokyo of using national security as a pretext for military expansion and raising tensions in outer space.

The warning comes a day after Japan’s Ministry of Defense unveiled its first-ever “space domain defense guidelines,” aimed at bolstering the country’s ability to protect its space assets and communications infrastructure amid growing threats from nations like China and Russia.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun strongly criticized the move, claiming it was part of a broader military agenda supported by the United States.

“Japan and the United States are working together to strengthen space defense in a way that poses real risks to peace and security in outer space,” Guo said. “China firmly opposes Japan increasing threats to other countries under the guise of space defense.”

Japan’s defense guidelines describe outer space as an emerging “battle area” and emphasize the need to defend satellites and space-based communications from potential attacks. The document specifically cites growing global concerns over the development of “killer satellites” weapons ”systems designed to disable or destroy space infrastructure.

Guo countered by stating that China remains committed to the peaceful use of outer space and opposes any arms race beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. He reiterated Beijing’s long-standing position against the militarization of space and urged Japan to act responsibly.

The space defense guidelines mark a significant shift in Japan’s national security posture, as the country increases collaboration with the United States in space surveillance and satellite protection. Japan is also expanding its own Space Operations Squadron, a military unit established to monitor space threats and ensure the stability of vital satellite systems.

The announcement adds to growing regional tensions in East Asia, where geopolitical competition in both terrestrial and space domains is intensifying. Analysts warn that the friction could escalate into a broader strategic standoff if not managed through diplomatic channels.