Professor at Taiwan’s National Defense University Under Investigation
The Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office has launched an investigation into Ke Ming-te (葛明德), a professor at Taiwan’s National Defense University (NDU), over suspected fraud and possible illegal collaboration with China. The probe centers around Ke’s involvement in Dexnano Chemicals Technology Co., a company prosecutors believe was secretly co-founded with his son, Ke Yi-fan (葛翊凡), to allegedly misuse research funding and potentially transfer sensitive technology to China.
On Wednesday, authorities conducted searches at Ke’s residence and NDU’s Chung Cheng Institute of Technology, leading to the questioning of Ke and nine other individuals. While some were brought in as suspects, others were interviewed as witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.
Allegations of Fraud and Ties to China
The case against Ke first gained traction in 2023 when Deputy Health Minister Lin Ching-yi (林靜儀), then a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker, raised concerns in Taiwan’s Legislature. Lin alleged that Ke, who was overseeing critical precision systems research at NDU’s Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC), had been involved in secret collaborations with Chinese entities while using his son as a front to operate Dexnano Chemicals.
According to Lin, Ke’s company had been operating for over a decade, while he continued to hold his university position, potentially violating Taiwan’s national security laws. She also suggested that Ke’s dealings with China could have led to the illegal transfer of sensitive military and technological research.
Lin further revealed that Ke had participated in 117 research projects under Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council and its predecessor agencies since 1997. These projects included work on advanced systems engineering, firearm components, stealth coatings, and electromagnetic naval weaponry—areas considered highly sensitive to Taiwan’s defense capabilities.
Concerns Over National Security Risks
The potential implications of Ke’s alleged ties to China are significant, given Taiwan’s tense geopolitical situation. If the allegations are proven, the case could expose vulnerabilities in Taiwan’s defense research sector and raise questions about China’s intelligence operations targeting Taiwanese academics.
Authorities believe that Ke may have misused research funding from Taiwan’s government to develop technologies that were later shared with China. The investigation is still in its early stages, and while fraud charges are currently at the forefront, national security concerns remain under scrutiny.
The Ministry of National Defense (MND) has stated that it has been cooperating with the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office and law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation.
University’s Response and Next Steps
Following Ke’s questioning, National Defense University (NDU) released a statement confirming full cooperation with the investigation. The university emphasized its commitment to upholding academic integrity and ensuring that its research programs remain protected from external threats.
Legal experts speculate that if Ke is found guilty, he could face serious charges, including fraud, breach of trust, and possibly espionage-related offenses, depending on whether evidence of direct collaboration with Chinese authorities emerges.
As the case unfolds, the Taiwanese government is likely to review and strengthen regulations regarding research collaboration with foreign entities, particularly in sectors related to national security and defense technology.
FAQs
What is Professor Ke Ming-te accused of?
Ke Ming-te is accused of fraud and potential illegal collaboration with China through a company he allegedly co-founded with his son. The investigation focuses on misuse of research funding and potential technology transfers.
What research did Ke conduct at National Defense University?
Ke was involved in highly sensitive defense research, including advanced systems engineering, firearm components, stealth coatings, and electromagnetic naval weapons—critical to Taiwan’s military development.
Why is this case a national security concern?
If Ke shared sensitive research with China, it could pose a major risk to Taiwan’s military and technological security, as China has been increasing its intelligence and espionage activities against Taiwan.
What legal consequences could Ke face?
If found guilty, Ke could face fraud charges, breach of trust, and possibly espionage-related offenses if evidence of illegal collaboration with China is discovered.
What actions are being taken by the Taiwanese government?
The Ministry of National Defense and law enforcement agencies are investigating the case, and the Taiwanese government may introduce stricter regulations on research collaborations with foreign entities to prevent future security risks.
