A U.S. Army soldier is facing charges for allegedly selling classified military information to individuals linked to China. Federal authorities revealed that the soldier, Jian Zhao, unlawfully transferred an encrypted military computer and sensitive hard drives to a co-conspirator associated with China. The case raises serious concerns about national security and the unauthorized disclosure of classified information.
Charges Against the U.S. Army Soldier
Federal prosecutors assert that Jian Zhao, stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington, collaborated with an accomplice between July and December of last year. Zhao allegedly provided an encrypted military computer and 20 sensitive hard drives, compromising defense intelligence.
The charges against Zhao include:
- Conspiring to obtain and share national defense materials
- Bribery
- Theft of government assets
Additional Soldier Implicated in Classified Information Leak
Authorities in Oregon have also charged another active-duty Army soldier, Li Tian, for distributing restricted military data on U.S. combat vehicles. Reports indicate that Tian shared classified details on Bradley and Stryker Army vehicles with Ruoyu Duan, a former soldier. Both individuals have been detained and charged with bribery and theft of government resources.
Government Response to National Security Breach
Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned these actions, stating, “These individuals betrayed their country, compromised defense capabilities, and supported foreign adversaries. They will be held accountable.”
FBI Director Kash Patel echoed these sentiments, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “These charges highlight a serious breach of national security. Those responsible will be brought to justice.”
Transactions Involving Classified Military Data
Prosecutors disclosed that Zhao initially accepted $1,000 for the encrypted military computer, informing his associate that the device was rare and valuable. Zhao later negotiated deals with Chinese buyers, selling multiple restricted hard drives for $7,500.
In October, Zhao reportedly took photographs of confidential military documents, offering them for $3,000 to $4,000 each. His co-conspirator later acquired two documents for $6,500.
Court records include surveillance evidence showing Zhao using his smartphone to capture sensitive files while communicating with a buyer. These findings serve as critical proof of his involvement.(U.S. Army Soldier)
Potential National Security Threat and Zhao’s Foreign Ties
Prosecutors argue that Zhao’s repeated expressions of intent to return to China classify him as a flight risk. In one exchange, he allegedly remarked, “I really want to return to China.” This, along with his willingness to disclose classified information, led prosecutors to push for his detention before trial.
Further investigations suggest that Zhao may have a warehouse used for storing additional confidential materials. Law enforcement is working to locate the facility and determine whether more data was unlawfully transferred.
Conclusion
The case of Jian Zhao underscores the dangers of insider espionage within military ranks. Unauthorized distribution of classified information poses a direct threat to national security. As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to enforcing strict measures against security breaches and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
