Fifth force: is China adding hypersonic ‘near-space command’ to its military for ‘precise and merciless’ attacks?

China has reportedly created a new military branch called the near-space command, which is equipped with hypersonic weapons. These weapons are extremely fast and can operate at high altitudes. The near-space command is part of China's military alongside the army, air force, navy, and rocket forces. The development of this force is ongoing, and there is still much to learn about managing near-space combat. The command structure and communication methods are areas that need improvement. nnThe exact time when this command was formed is not known, and the South China Morning Post has not been able to confirm the details independently. However, a research paper presented at a conference suggests that near-space is becoming a critical battleground that could influence the outcomes of future conflicts. The paper indicates that China's near-space command is prepared to launch relentless attacks on vital targets and conduct surveillance globally using drones and spy balloons. The operations in near-space are sensitive, and any activity over foreign territories could lead to political or diplomatic issues. Therefore, high-level military approval is required for the use of near-space assets to prevent any international incidents. nnHypersonic weapons are a key component of China's near-space capabilities. These weapons can travel at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound and are capable of evading air defense systems. Despite their advantages, hypersonic weapons also present political and diplomatic challenges. The near-space command also utilizes spy balloons and drones that can remain airborne for extended periods, providing surveillance and communication support. In the event of a war, the near-space force's primary objective would be to target and disable the enemy's critical military infrastructure, which could significantly impact their ability to conduct warfare. The near-space region begins at an altitude of around 20 kilometers and extends to the edge of space. China has been at the forefront of hypersonic weapon development and showcased its capabilities during a military parade. The success of the near-space command will depend on innovative strategies and a thorough understanding of the enemy's vulnerabilities.