China is providing satellite intelligence for military purposes to Russia, US warns, says report

BUSINESS INSIDER: The US has warned its allies of China's growing technological assistance to Russia's war effort against Ukraine.

As the two countries' military collaboration strengthens, China is providing Russia with geospatial satellite imagery for military use.

The news comes a month after a report by the London-based Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) warned that Russia was increasing its cooperation with China in 5G and satellite technology.

Geospatial intelligence integrates data from a network of technologies, ranging from satellites to mobile sensors, ground-control stations, and aerial images. The data is then used to produce real-time maps and simulations to help identify military threats, according to the European Union Satellite Centre.

China's assistance also includes support microelectronics and machine tools for tank production, optics, missile fuels, and greater space cooperation, according to sources familiar with the matter interviewed by Bloomberg.

Satellite imagery has played a critical role for both sides of the war in Ukraine.

In October 2022, Russia said commercial satellites used by the United States to assist Ukraine in its war against Russia were "legitimate" targets for attacks.

Private assets like Elon Musk's Starlink satellite terminals and Maxar and Planet Labs earth observation satellites have proven critical in keeping Ukrainians online.

In recent months, however, Ukraine has criticized Musk for failing to prevent Russia from using the Starlink terminals in Russia-occupied regions of Ukraine.