Only the PRC seems to have the requisite quantity and quality of launch and nuclear resources to produce an ASAT weapon in the near future. The Chinese have developed a series of space launch vehicles, have orbited space vehicles, and have tracked and controlled them. Additionally, their existing space program has become a valuable asset that they need to protect or, in some cases, use to deny space superiority to others. The PRC's potential to develop and employ ASAT capabilities provides an opportunity for the Chinese to enter another phase of space operations. They could dominate space activities against military and commercial space satellites that might interfere with a regional dispute on their borders. The development and visible operation of ASATs may serve as a source of national prestige to bolster the current government's position internationally and domestically. If it had an operational ASAT capability, the PRC might be able to force commercial and other countries, including the United States, not to place their satellites in harm's way, that is, near to or above Chinese air space (both within the earth's atmosphere and in outer space). Another benefit accruing to the PRC from building an ASAT system is the potential to sell operating systems, technology, and experience to third parties.

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Chun, Clayton K. S. Shooting Down a Star: Program 437, the U.S. Nuclear ASAT System and Present Day Copycat Killers. Maxwell AFB, AL: USAF Air University, April 2000. [ 11 quotes ] [ page 67 ]