SOURCE: AFI
China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) has officially confirmed the espionage case of a former defense engineer, identified as Liu, who was sentenced to death for leaking state secrets, including classified data on the FC-31 stealth fighter jet, to foreign intelligence agencies.
The case, which had been the subject of speculation on Chinese social media, was detailed in an MSS statement, revealing the extent of Liu’s activities and the significant security breach he perpetrated. According to the state-run Global Times, Liu was a former assistant engineer at a domestic research institute specializing in defense technology.
MSS sources indicate that Liu became embittered after being passed over for a promotion. This resentment led him to secretly copy and retain a substantial volume of classified documents. Following his resignation, he joined an investment firm, but his financial situation deteriorated due to high-risk stock speculation and illicit credit withdrawals, driving him to seek alternative, illegal income.
Liu allegedly made contact with a foreign intelligence agency, offering classified information in exchange for payment. To facilitate the transactions, he fragmented and packaged sensitive documents, created a detailed catalog, and established multiple online accounts to receive funds. He employed sophisticated methods to evade detection, including using anonymous IC and SIM cards, frequently changing communication methods, and utilizing multiple aliases with prearranged codes for covert exchanges, according to the MSS.
Over a six-month period, Liu traveled to multiple countries, reportedly compromising critical Chinese defense information. However, the foreign intelligence agency that initially purchased classified data from Liu severed contact after acquiring information at a low cost. Undeterred, Liu refined his espionage techniques and attempted to re-engage with other foreign operatives. His actions triggered heightened scrutiny from Chinese national security agencies, who monitored his movements and communications, leading to his eventual arrest.
The MSS article states that Liu was convicted of espionage and illegally providing state secrets to foreign entities. He received a death sentence, along with lifelong deprivation of political rights, a penalty reflecting the severity of his actions. Chinese authorities emphasized that national security remains a top priority, warning that cases of espionage and the unauthorized distribution of sensitive information will be met with the harshest legal consequences.
The FC-31 stealth fighter jet, reportedly among the classified information Liu attempted to sell, is a crucial component of China’s evolving military capabilities. As a next-generation aircraft designed for low observability and advanced combat effectiveness, its technological details are considered highly sensitive and protected.
The leak is particularly significant as Pakistan was slated to be the first international customer for the FC-31. The compromise of sensitive data raises concerns about the potential impact on Pakistan’s defense capabilities and the broader regional security landscape. Furthermore, with the leak, India will be able to get a briefing about the jet soon, thus enabling the Indian Air Force to devise countermeasures for its operations. In effect, the FC-31 appears to have lost a strategic air battle with the IAF before even being inducted into the Pakistan Air Force.
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