Seeking Stability in Outer Space: Opportunities for China–UK Dialogue

Space systems are critical enablers for military and civilian services. While a number of states are conducting space activities, Chinese views on outer space warrant particular attention given China’s status as the second-largest user of space and its pursuit of space capabilities. As outlined in this paper, the United Kingdom, with its own space security interests and capability development, is well positioned to foster common understandings on space security issues with China. 

Bilateral China–UK engagement on space could mutually benefit both states by providing bases for de-escalation and risk reduction at a critical time when relations between major powers have severely deteriorated. There are identified commonalities in Chinese and British priorities for space security and strategic stability, as well as certain types of space threats which China and the UK may have a mutual interest in addressing. While each state has differing approaches to governance, underpinned by certain assumptions and varying terminologies, there is scope to build common understandings and even reconcile some differences through bilateral space security dialogue. Ultimately, both China and the UK recognize the strategic significance of the space domain and aim to address negative developments in space that may upend stability. Bilateral space-focused dialogue can therefore provide opportunities for both states to adopt measures that align with their objectives for stability in outer space.