Germany has charged three individuals with espionage for allegedly supplying Chinese intelligence with sensitive information related to naval technology. The accused, identified as Herwig F., Ina F., and Thomas R., are suspected of gathering data that could enhance China’s military capabilities, particularly in naval combat.
Key Takeaways
- Three German nationals charged with espionage for China.
- Accused of collecting sensitive naval technology information.
- Allegations include illegal export of dual-use lasers.
Details of the Charges
The federal prosecutor’s office in Germany announced the charges on January 9, 2025. The three suspects are accused of working for a Chinese intelligence service, specifically the Ministry of State Security (MSS). Prosecutors revealed that Thomas R. acted as an agent for an MSS employee based in China since 2017.
Herwig F. and Ina F., a married couple, operated a company in Düsseldorf that allegedly facilitated their espionage activities. They are accused of using their business to establish connections with other companies and scientific institutions to gather information on advanced technologies.
Nature of the Information Collected
Between February 2017 and April 2024, the trio reportedly collected various types of information, including:
- Boat engines
- Sonar systems
- Aircraft protection systems
- Motors for armored vehicles
- Military drones
This information was believed to be crucial for enhancing China’s naval combat capabilities. In one instance, the couple signed an agreement with a German university to conduct a study on state-of-the-art ship engine technology, which was intended for a Chinese partner organization backed by the MSS.
Illegal Exports and Arrests
In addition to gathering sensitive information, the suspects are accused of illegally exporting three specialized lasers to China. These lasers are classified as dual-use goods, meaning they can serve both civilian and military purposes.
The trio was arrested in April 2024, and formal charges were filed in December of the same year. Thomas R. remains in pre-trial detention, while Herwig F. and Ina F. were released in October after their arrest warrants were suspended.
Broader Context of Espionage in Germany
Germany has faced increasing concerns over espionage activities linked to foreign powers, particularly China and Russia. Recent incidents include the arrest of a Chinese woman accused of spying on defense industry installations and ongoing investigations into other suspected espionage cases involving Chinese nationals.
The German government is under pressure to enhance its counterintelligence measures to protect sensitive technologies and information from foreign espionage efforts. This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Germany in safeguarding its national security amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Sources
- Germany charges three with spying on naval tech for China – Insider Paper, Insider Paper.
- Germany charges three individuals for spying on Naval Tech for China | MyIndMakers, MyIndMakers.
- Germany charges 3 with spying on naval tech for China | South China Morning Post, South China Morning Post.
