San Jose Engineer Arrested for Allegedly Stealing Sensitive Missile Technologies
A San Jose engineer working for a Southern California company has been arrested on suspicion of stealing sensitive missile technologies developed for use by the U.S. government, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Chenguang Gong, 57, a native of China who became an American citizen in 2011, has been charged with allegedly stealing trade secrets.
Thousands of Files Transferred: Blueprints and Technology at Risk
Prosecutors allege that Gong transferred more than 3,600 files from his employer’s research and development company to his personal storage devices. Among these files were blueprints for sophisticated nuclear missile launch detection systems and technology to detect and jam incoming missiles’ infrared tracking abilities. Investigators found these files in devices seized from Gong’s residence. The U.S. Department of Justice warns that if these technologies fall into the wrong hands, it “would be dangerous to U.S. national security if obtained by international actors.”
Short Employment Period, But Long-Term Theft
Although Gong worked for his employer for less than a month, prosecutors claim that he managed to transfer thousands of files from his work laptop to personal storage devices. He also allegedly transferred 1,800 files during a week when he had accepted another job at a competitor company. According to the government, many of the stolen files were labeled as “For Official Use Only,” “Proprietary Information,” and “Export Controlled.”
Alleged Links to the People’s Republic of China
While the government has not charged Gong with selling the stolen secrets or providing them to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada released a statement noting Gong’s relationship with the country. Estrada stated that Gong “had previously sought to provide the People’s Republic of China with information to aid its military” and accused him of stealing sensitive information related to nuclear missile launches and tracking ballistic and hypersonic missiles. Estrada emphasized the need to safeguard American businesses’ innovations against foreign actors, including the PRC.
Connections to “Talent Programs” Sponsored by China
Prosecutors revealed that Gong had applied to “Talent Programs” sponsored by the People’s Republic of China between 2014 and 2022. These programs aim to identify individuals outside of China who possess expert skills and knowledge that could benefit the country’s economy and military capabilities. Gong allegedly traveled to China multiple times to seek funding through these programs. In an email written in Chinese, he acknowledged the risk he took by participating in the Talent Programs while employed at an American military industry company, expressing his desire to contribute to China’s “high-end military circuits.”
Potential Consequences: Federal Prison Sentence
If convicted of theft of trade secrets, Gong could face up to ten years in federal prison, according to prosecutors. The case highlights the ongoing threat of foreign actors attempting to steal U.S. technology, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in safeguarding American businesses and researchers’ innovations.
Analyst comment
Negative news.
As an analyst, the market may experience a sense of insecurity due to the theft of sensitive missile technologies, particularly as it involves national security. This incident highlights the need for increased protection of technology and the importance of preventing foreign actors from stealing valuable intellectual property.
