The ministry further reported that these organizations have attempted to infiltrate Chinese space companies, targeting scientists and engineers in efforts to obtain classified information on China's space programs and technological advancements. Espionage efforts have reportedly included both coercion and bribery.
The MSS claims that certain Western nations are pushing for dominance in space, framing the issue as part of a broader "arms race" in orbit, while simultaneously trying to undermine China's space capabilities. Protecting space-based systems has become critical to national security, the ministry noted, given the growing strategic importance of space for military and economic purposes.
The MSS also highlighted recent actions it has taken against espionage within the Chinese space sector. In collaboration with other state departments, security agencies have reportedly thwarted several attempts by foreign agents to steal secrets related to China's space operations. In particular, the ministry referenced past cases of Chinese scientists being recruited by foreign intelligence services, including the high-profile case of Zhao Xuejun, a researcher arrested in 2019 for leaking classified documents. Zhao was sentenced in 2022 to seven years in prison.
While China's security agencies continue to combat these threats, the ministry emphasized that space remains a key focus for foreign intelligence agencies due to its potential to reveal insights into China's strategic and technological strengths.
Industry experts, who remain unnamed, suggested that information gathered through espionage in China's space sector can provide foreign powers with a clearer understanding of the nation's scientific and engineering capabilities. This remains a critical concern for China as it advances its space ambitions.
Related Links
Ministry of State Security
Military Space News at SpaceWar.com
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