Declassified US Report Reveals First Clear Image of China's Shenlong Space Plane

A newly declassified satellite image in the Defense Intelligence Agency's 'Challenges to Security in Space' report offers the first clear look at China's Shenlong space plane, also known as the 'divine dragon.' The image, captured from orbit, shows the reusable spacecraft with its distinctive design, providing rare insight into a program shrouded in secrecy. Since 2022, Shenlong has released at least nine unidentified payloads into low Earth orbit, sparking concerns among US defense officials about potential military applications. The DIA report highlights China's rapid advancement in space technologies, including on-orbit operations that could challenge US assets. The release of the image marks a significant shift in intelligence sharing, aimed at raising awareness of the growing competition in space. As both nations accelerate their spaceplane development, the strategic balance in orbit becomes increasingly critical. The Shenlong's capabilities remain a key focus for US space command.