The US is exploring the possibility of a Space Force ‘hotline’ with China. 

In a bid to ease tensions and prevent potential crises in space, the United States Space Force is considering the establishment of a direct hotline with China, according to General Chance Saltzman, the US Space Force commander. 

While this idea has been discussed internally, formal engagement with China has not occurred as yet.

General Saltzman says having a communication channel between the Space Force and China's space authority would help to de-escalate potential conflicts. 

However, he noted that the responsibility for initiating such discussions rests with President Joe Biden and the State Department.

This development comes as the US Space Force investigates the possibility of creating a branch in Japan. 

The move aligns with concerns over China's military ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region, which have raised apprehensions among neighbouring countries. 

Additionally, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has underscored the importance of space capabilities in modern warfare.

Japan, in particular, has expressed unease regarding the situation in Taiwan and the potential implications of China's actions. 

China considers Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control over the island.

During his visit to Tokyo, General Saltzman confirmed that discussions were underway regarding the establishment of a local Space Force headquarters in Japan. 

Although specific details about the location and purpose remain undisclosed, it could resemble the branch established in South Korea in November of the previous year.

Saltzman has also emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation with like-minded countries, including Japan, to effectively monitor and understand activities in the space domain. 

This collaboration is seen as crucial for deterring China's actions and countering ‘grey zone activities’, such as satellite signal jamming.

“We have to be able to have those indications and warnings and see what they're doing and call them on the intent. Just being hypersensitive so we don't fall prey to grey zone activities,” Saltzman said.

In addition to China, the US Space Force also lacks a direct line of communication with its Russian counterpart.