China confirms plans to build ‘nuclear plant’
A retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant general, Steven Kwast, has warned that China and Russia’s joint plan to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2036 could leave America vulnerable. The project, part of their International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), aims to support long-term lunar operations, potentially including human presence. Kwast, a space policy expert, highlighted concerns over China’s activities on the Moon’s far side—where the U.S. lacks surveillance—suggesting they may be mining helium-3, a valuable energy resource.
Kwast stressed that while the U.S. has advanced technology, China’s strategic focus on lunar infrastructure and logistics could dominate future energy and information markets. He argued America’s current approach—prioritizing satellite improvements over broader space infrastructure—risks falling behind. With China already established on the Moon’s hidden side, Kwast urged a shift in U.S. strategy to avoid becoming “victims” in the new space race. The warning underscores growing tensions in global space competition.
