Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) confirmed on Wednesday that a retired Air Force officer, Shih Chun-cheng (史濬程), was involved in leaking classified military documents to Chinese intelligence agents. This revelation has once again highlighted the persistent threat of Chinese infiltration and espionage targeting Taiwan’s defense systems.
Espionage Operation Uncovered
According to an investigative report by Mirror Media, Shih was recruited by Chinese intelligence after retiring from the Taiwanese Air Force in 2008. Over the years, he engaged in espionage activities, targeting active-duty military personnel to obtain sensitive information. One such recruit was Hsu Chan-cheng (許展誠), an Air Intercept Controller in the Air Force, whom Shih convinced to provide classified documents in exchange for financial compensation.
The leaked documents reportedly included:
- Deployment strategies of Taiwan’s Air Force in response to Chinese military incursions into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ).
- Operational applications of the Hsiung Feng III (HF-3) air-launched anti-ship missiles, a crucial part of Taiwan’s defensive strategy.
Discovery and Investigation
The MND became aware of the case in January 2023 when its Department of Strategic Planning filed a report stating that Shih had been approaching active military personnel under the pretense of being an analyst from an American think tank. This raised suspicions, leading to an internal probe.
In August 2024, prosecutors raided Shih’s residence and uncovered evidence confirming his espionage activities. Both Shih and Hsu were indicted in December 2024 under the following laws:
- National Security Act – for engaging in espionage activities harmful to Taiwan’s sovereignty.
- Classified National Security Information Protection Act – for unauthorized disclosure of top-secret military data.
- Anti-Corruption Act – for accepting bribes in exchange for leaking classified documents.
The case is currently being heard by the Taiwan High Court’s Taichung Branch.
Financial Incentives for Espionage
A source close to the investigation confirmed that Shih received more than NT$1.5 million (US$45,509) from his Chinese handlers in exchange for military secrets. Of this, he allegedly shared NT$200,000 with Hsu, his recruited informant.
This case highlights the financial incentives used by Chinese intelligence to recruit spies, particularly targeting military personnel who may be struggling financially after retirement.
MND’s Response and National Security Measures
Following the exposure of this espionage case, the MND reiterated that Chinese infiltration efforts have never ceased and vowed to strengthen counterintelligence measures. The ministry has announced several initiatives to counter espionage threats, including:
- Stronger cybersecurity protocols to prevent unauthorized access to classified documents.
- Mandatory counter-espionage training for all military personnel, focusing on how to identify and report recruitment attempts.
- Increased surveillance of retired military officers to track suspicious activities.
- Collaboration with national security agencies to root out potential spy networks operating within Taiwan’s defense institutions.
Growing Threat of Chinese Espionage
This incident is part of a larger pattern of Chinese espionage activities targeting Taiwan’s military and government. Over the years, multiple cases have surfaced where former military officers, government officials, and even business executives were recruited by Chinese intelligence operatives to leak sensitive information.
The Taiwanese government has been actively strengthening counterintelligence efforts, but the persistence of such cases underscores the need for constant vigilance and enhanced security measures.
FAQs
Who was involved in the espionage case?
The case involved retired Air Force officer Shih Chun-cheng and active-duty officer Hsu Chan-cheng, who were caught leaking classified military documents to Chinese intelligence.
What kind of information was leaked?
The leaked documents contained Taiwan’s Air Force defense strategies and Hsiung Feng III missile deployment plans, which are crucial for Taiwan’s military operations against potential Chinese aggression.
How was the espionage operation discovered?
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) discovered the case in January 2023 after noticing that Shih was posing as a U.S. think tank researcher to gain access to military personnel and classified documents.
What legal actions have been taken against the suspects?
Both Shih and Hsu were indicted in December 2024 under Taiwan’s National Security Act, Classified National Security Information Protection Act, and Anti-Corruption Act. The case is currently being heard in the Taiwan High Court’s Taichung Branch.
Why is China targeting retired military personnel?
China often targets retired officers because they have extensive knowledge of Taiwan’s military operations and may be financially vulnerable, making them easier to recruit.
