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Did America Just Miss the Chinese Sputnik Moment?

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Did America Just Miss the Chinese Sputnik Moment?
The Chinese military's new DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missiles, that can reportedly reach the United States, are seen at a parade to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Communist Party's takeover of China, at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on Oct. 1, 2019. Kevin Frayer/Getty Images
James E. Fanell
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On Oct. 4, 1957, the Soviet Union (USSR) launched the world’s first satellite, Sputnik, into space. The moment was characterized as the “Sputnik Moment” because the United States recognized that it had grossly underestimated the capabilities and intentions of the USSR.

James E. Fanell
James E. Fanell
Author
Jim Fanell, a retired U.S. Navy captain, is currently a government fellow at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy in Switzerland, and a former director of intelligence and information operations for the U.S. Pacific Fleet. His nearly 30-year career as a naval intelligence officer spanned an unprecedented series of afloat and ashore assignments across the Indo-Pacific, specializing in the People’s Republic of China’s navy and its operations. A recognized international public speaker and accomplished writer, Fanell also is the creator and manager of the Indo-Pacific Security forum Red Star Rising/Risen.
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