US Navy Sailor Sentenced for Transmitting Sensitive Military Information to Chinese Intelligence

Wenheng Zhao, a US Navy sailor, has been sentenced to over two years in prison for leaking sensitive military information to a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for bribes. The information included plans for a large-scale US military exercise in the Indo-Pacific region.

A US Navy sailor, Wenheng Zhao, has been sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for transmitting sensitive US military information to a Chinese intelligence officer. Zhao, also known as Thomas Zhao, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of receiving a bribe in violation of his official duties. He was also fined USD 5,500.

Bribes and Sensitive Information

Based at Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, north of Los Angeles, Zhao collected nearly USD 15,000 in bribes in exchange for information, photos, and videos involving Navy exercises, operations, and facilities between August 2021 and May 2023. The information included plans for a large-scale US military exercise in the Indo-Pacific region, detailing the location and timing of naval force movements.

Encrypted Communications and Destruction of Evidence

Zhao used encrypted communications to transmit the information to the intelligence officer and destroyed the evidence to hide their relationship. The Chinese officer offered to pay Zhao bonuses for controlled and classified information.

Statement from FBI Official

Donald Alway, the assistant director in charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office, stated, "Mr. Zhao abdicated his oath to the United States and put American troops in harm's way when he accessed and handed over sensitive information to China for a payout."

Another Case Involving a US Navy Sailor

Zhao is one of two US Navy sailors based in California who were charged last summer with providing sensitive military information to China. Jinchao Wei, known as Patrick Wei, was assigned to the San Diego-based USS Essex when he was arrested last August while boarding the ship. He is accused of providing detailed information on the weapons systems and aircraft aboard the Essex and other amphibious assault ships. He could receive a life sentence if convicted and has pleaded not guilty.

Concerns about Chinese Espionage

US officials have expressed concern about the espionage threat posed by the Chinese government, bringing criminal cases in recent years against Beijing intelligence operatives involved in stealing sensitive government and commercial information, including through illegal hacking. These cases exemplify China's brazenness in trying to obtain insight into US military operations.

The sentencing of Wenheng Zhao highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the US in countering espionage activities by foreign governments. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and robust security measures to protect sensitive military information.