China Invests in Planetary Defense, Seeks Global Role

China is accelerating its investments in planetary defense, announcing plans to establish an asteroid early-warning network and detailing its asteroid deflection mission, scheduled for 2027. These initiatives aim to bolster its image as a strong space power internationally and enhance national security. China joined the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and the Space Mission Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG) under the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs in 2018. Its 2021 Space White Paper designated planetary defense as a national priority, outlining plans to improve monitoring, cataloging, early warning, response, and disposal capabilities. The Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL), established in 2022, leads research in this field. These efforts serve to showcase China's international influence and technological prowess, aligning with Beijing's narrative of building "a global community of shared future." Domestically, plans for an asteroid early warning system were announced following a 2017 fireball event, addressing public concerns. The development of planetary defense capabilities is also closely linked to advancements in military technology and promotes military-civil fusion. However, significant limitations persist in China's planetary defense capabilities. Compared to the United States, it lags technologically and institutionally and is reluctant to share information with international partners. Chinese experts themselves acknowledge China's low international contribution and influence in planetary defense, recommending a more active role through UN mechanisms, participation in international coordination frameworks, and expanded data sharing. The domestic structure is also complex and opaque, with limited authority for the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and involvement from numerous government agencies, the military, state-owned enterprises, and ultimately, the Chinese Communist Party.