Unnamed Chinese FOBS system

Sometime around the Summer of 2021, China appears to have tested a yet-unnamed FOBS system, or perhaps an orbital vehicle similar to the X-37B. Reactions by news commentators and (some) generals was quick: the event was referenced as a "Sputnik Moment" where the Chinese had apparently done the impossible. However, many experts disagreed and recommended that policymakers exercise caution around overreacting.

What we actually know

In short: very little, at least right now. China has confirmed a test, but not of any weapons system (instead claiming it was a routine test of a "space vehicle"). To be clear, this isn't an impossible claim, but the evidence is mixed. It does appear that on July 16, CASC announced a suborbital spaceplane flight. However, the details are inconsistent with the claimed FOBS system.

(This section should be updated at a later date once we have more information!)

Why FOBS?

Main article: FOBS (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System)

One of the reasons that China may be pursuing FOBS is to circumvent concerns around the development of American missile defense systems. This action would echo Soviet concerns over the Safeguard defense system. Another aspect may be Chinese concerns over the X-37B itself, as the system could be redeveloped to be nuclear-capable. That is to say, is every spaceplane now a FOBS?

See Also

Chinese Nuclear Weapons (2000s-present)

Further Reading

Policy Briefs: Chinese Fractional Orbital Bombardment (APLN)