On the outskirts of Cairo, a new space laboratory was launched with the aim of producing Africa’s first homegrown satellites. However, inside the facility, the presence of Chinese engineers, equipment, and technology reveals a deeper involvement by Beijing in Africa’s space ambitions.

The Egyptian satellite lab is part of China’s broader efforts to strengthen its global space influence, integrating African nations into its growing network of space partnerships. The lab, operational since 2023, is a key component of Space City, a complex under construction near Egypt’s new administrative capital.

While China has publicly declared its assistance in developing African space programs—including the donation of satellites, monitoring telescopes, and ground stations—new findings indicate that Beijing retains access to the data collected from these projects. Chinese personnel also maintain a long-term presence in these facilities, raising concerns about China’s strategic objectives.

Egypt, a major recipient of U.S. military aid, has been strengthening ties with China under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s administration. The collaboration includes infrastructure and energy projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. China has established 23 bilateral space partnerships across Africa, supporting satellite development and space monitoring stations.

Egypt, South Africa, and Senegal have recently agreed to cooperate with China on future lunar exploration, including a moon base project that rivals U.S. plans. In a meeting with African leaders in September, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged $50 billion in loans and investment for space technology and deep-space exploration over the next three years.

The Egyptian satellite facility is the latest in a series of high-tech investments by China. Over the past two years, China has provided Egypt with a space monitoring center equipped with two of the world’s most powerful telescopes, as well as three Earth observation satellites.

One of these satellites, MisrSat-2, was assembled in Egypt but largely built in China before its launch in December 2023. Another satellite, Horus 2, is believed to have military-grade surveillance capabilities, according to sources familiar with the project. Despite claims that Egypt retains control of its satellite data, Chinese engineers remain actively involved in operations.

China has also developed similar space partnerships with Ethiopia, where it funds satellite ground stations and data collection projects. These collaborations provide scientific and environmental benefits, but they also serve strategic functions, enhancing China’s space situational awareness.

The Pentagon has expressed concerns that China’s expanding space footprint in Africa could pose security risks by enabling surveillance and military coordination. The development of powerful telescopes and satellite tracking stations could also support China’s ability to monitor and counter U.S. and allied space assets.

While China denies using its space projects for military surveillance, its growing influence in Africa contrasts with a decline in U.S. engagement. NASA’s first African ground station is currently under construction in South Africa, but U.S. partnerships in the region remain limited.

With Africa becoming a key battleground in the new space race, countries on the continent are weighing their options. While some remain neutral, many are drawn to China’s willingness to provide funding, technology, and infrastructure. As global powers compete for dominance in space, Africa is emerging as a strategic frontier in this escalating rivalry.