The Netherlands’ military intelligence agency, known as MIVD, revealed in its 2022 annual report that China is actively seeking to acquire equipment and knowledge from the Dutch space sector, sometimes through circumvention of export restrictions. MIVD’s analysis indicates that China’s satellite launch capacity is expected to increase to 100 launches per year in the coming years.
The report states that there have been several attempts by China to acquire military-relevant technology outside the scope of export restrictions, including the use of cover companies for this purpose. MIVD did not provide specific details on the methods used by China to circumvent export restrictions or the technology being sought, but MIVD Chief Jan Swillers noted that China was specifically interested in “launchers with intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and communication satellites.”
China has long maintained that its space program is for peaceful purposes and opposes an arms race in space. However, Beijing has also emphasized that its space program is critical to safeguarding China’s national security, and it aims to become a major space power by 2030.
The report also highlights that China aims to develop state-of-the-art quantum communication networks with global coverage to establish itself as a leader in space technology. This aligns with China’s broader efforts to advance its technological capabilities and expand its influence in the space sector.
The Dutch general intelligence agency AIVD, which works closely with MIVD, stated earlier this week that China poses the greatest threat to Dutch economic security. In response, China’s foreign ministry called on Western officials to abandon a Cold War mentality and stop hyping up the “China threat” narrative. The Chinese embassy in the Netherlands rejected the AIVD’s remarks, stating that accusations of Chinese firms engaging in spying were false and that they comply with Dutch laws and regulations.
The MIVD report also highlighted that the agency has implemented security measures wherever possible to safeguard against potential spying and hacking attempts. However, China’s persistent efforts to acquire technology and knowledge from the Dutch space sector in circumvention of export restrictions raise concerns about the potential risks to Dutch national security and the broader implications for global space competition.
