Russia and China narrow space race gap with US, reports indicate

Russia and China are progressively narrowing the space gap with the US, according to an assessment by The Washington Post (WP). The newspaper reported that the technological superiority of the US in this domain is beginning to erode, noting that fresh advancements achieved by Moscow and Beijing could create risks for Washington.

The newspaper pointed to China’s recent progress as an example of this trend. In August, a Chinese aerospace company successfully landed a rocket’s first stage on Earth for the first time.

Previously, only US-based companies SpaceX and Blue Origin possessed this technology. The ability to reuse rocket stages significantly reduces launch costs.

The WP also drew attention to Russia’s Rassvet satellite system, which is planned to deliver internet connectivity from space.

The newspaper noted that this system could be utilised by the Russian military. According to the assessment in the report, the Rassvet system could provide Russia with capabilities comparable to those offered by SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network.

According to the newspaper, among the primary challenges facing the US are ageing launch pads and other space infrastructure. Modernising this infrastructure requires securing additional funding from the US Congress.

The WP further emphasised the necessity of streamlining commercial launch licensing procedures, which currently can take an extended period.

Observing that the US maintains its superiority for now thanks to a robust private space sector, the newspaper stated that Washington must increase launch frequency and invest in infrastructure renewals to preserve its leadership.

According to a May 2025 report by The Times, the US has begun sharing certain data on Russian and Chinese space operations with Britain and other members of the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance.

This measure was taken in line with Washington’s concerns over Beijing’s advances in military space capabilities. In this context, allies were granted access to intelligence from Space Delta 9, the US Space Force unit that tracks Russian and Chinese satellites.

Russia and China, meanwhile, continue to pursue joint space projects. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in April 2025 that Moscow and Beijing have “grand” and “magnificent” plans in this field.

In 2024, Russia ratified an agreement with China regarding the International Lunar Research Station, which is planned to be established on the lunar surface or in lunar orbit.

Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine called on Russia, the US, and China in October 2025 to cooperate in space. Stating that the interests and activities of nations could intersect in space, Bridenstine said the parties could not operate alone.

Bridenstine also recalled that space cooperation between Moscow and Washington had commenced during the Cold War.