Two foreign nationals have been charged in the United States for allegedly attempting to smuggle sensitive military technology and equipment to China, marking a significant development in the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard national security and tighten oversight on foreign actors operating within the country.
According to federal authorities, a British businessman and a Chinese national are accused of conspiring to illegally acquire and export critical U.S. defense systems, including air defense radars, missile components, and encrypted communication devices.
The alleged plot involved concealing the equipment inside everyday household items—such as blenders and motor starters—in an effort to bypass export controls.
In a parallel set of charges, the individuals also face accusations of targeting a Chinese-American dissident artist residing in the U.S. Known for their public criticism of Chinese leadership through art, the artist was reportedly the subject of surveillance and an intimidation campaign designed to silence their political expression.
Prosecutors claim the defendants attempted to hire third parties to vandalize the artist’s property and monitor their movements, offering substantial payments for their cooperation.
One of the defendants was apprehended overseas and is currently pending extradition to face trial in the U.S. Both individuals could face lengthy prison sentences if convicted on charges including smuggling, conspiracy, and violations of arms export laws.
This case surfaces at a time when the U.S. administration is intensifying visa restrictions and national security screenings for foreign nationals, particularly those connected to strategic sectors or adversarial governments.
Officials have emphasized the need to confront growing threats posed by foreign influence operations and espionage, and have pledged continued enforcement to protect both American innovation and civil liberties.
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