China's ASAT & Missile Defense Programs - A Review of Programs, Plans, and Motivations

February 19, 2012

In 2007, China destroyed one of its own satellites, prompting a critical reexamination of the threats to the security of outer space. In 2010, China conducted a ballistic missile defense test, with subsequent assessments suggesting the two systems were intertwined. In recent weeks, reports suggested another ASAT test was imminent. Whether or not that test occurs, a broader understanding of the motivations driving these investments and plans for the development and use of those capabilities would improve U.S. thinking about how best to respond to China's actions.

On February 19, 2013, the TechAmerica Space Enterprise Council and the George Marshall Institute presented for a forum discussing China's plans, programs, and intentions for its ASAT and missile defense programs.

Featuring:

• Dean Cheng, Research Fellow at the Asian Studies Center, Heritage Foundation,
• Mark Stokes, Executive Director, Project 2049 Institute,
• K. Scott McMahon, Senior Defense Research Analyst, RAND Corp.