Unveiling Chinese Intrigue Through a US Navy Sailor’s Sentencing – Charting the Path for America’s Response

The recent conviction of US Navy sailor Wenheng Zhao highlights China’s continuous espionage activities, escalating the threat to the US and its allies.

The sentencing of a US Navy sailor is a window into Chinese espionage. Here’s how the US should respond (Photo: Google)

Unveiling Sophisticated Tactics Through US Navy Sentencings

Zhao was sentenced to 27 months for colluding with a foreign intelligence operative and taking a bribe after pleading guilty in October 2023. These instances and Jinchao Wei’s indictment highlight China’s intelligence issues.

The Zhao and Wei instances show China’s intelligence collecting goes beyond sensitive information. Indicted servicemembers had secret security clearances but were not given critical responsibilities. Wei on the USS Essex amphibious assault ship supplied non-classified but useful weaknesses, while Zhao described an Okinawa electrical system. China’s intelligence agencies profited from these low-cost activities.

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Smart Steps Against Espionage

The US should take a planned and deliberate response to these difficulties. Three critical procedures should be taken instead of reactive measures that may introduce additional vulnerabilities.

First, better counterintelligence training should emphasize prevention. Increased training frequency, various presenting modalities, and signed acknowledgments reduce risk.

Second, allies must be mobilized for counterintelligence. Educating allies about China’s intelligence tactics and sponsoring events can improve preparation. Third, all US military personnel should have a comprehensive, risk-based security strategy. Better risk management requires combining security and counterintelligence knowledge.

Furthermore, espionage threats can never be removed but risk management should be optimized. Training, engagement with allies, and a comprehensive people security strategy are needed to navigate US-China strategic competition and counter China’s intelligence collection.

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