A former Air Force fighter pilot has been arrested by authorities in Indiana for allegedly training Chinese military personnel without authorization, a major espionage case that raises concerns over potential national security threats.
Gerald Brown, 65, was detained after his recent return to the United States from China, where he had been working since December last year. The Justice Department confirmed his arrest in its statement, which also detailed allegations against him of conspiring with foreign nationals without proper State Department approval.
In a social media post, FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the significance of this case: “Major story… the FBI and our partners have arrested a former US Air Force Pilot who was allegedly training pilots in the Chinese military.”
Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg emphasized that Major Brown’s role as an elite fighter pilot had made him “entrusted with the defense of our nation.” However, he now faces charges for illegally teaching combat aircraft skills to Chinese Air Force pilots.
Brown’s career with the US Air Force spanned 24 years, during which he commanded sensitive units responsible for nuclear weapons delivery systems and led critical combat missions. He also served as a fighter pilot instructor and simulator instructor on various attack aircraft like the A-10 and F-35. After retiring in 1996, Brown transitioned to roles with U.S. defense contractors where he trained pilots to fly state-of-the-art military aircraft.
The case has deeper implications. According to the Justice Department statement, Brown allegedly began negotiating a contract with Chinese national Stephen Su Bin, who had previously served four years in American prison for espionage, and traveled to China in December 2023.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Roman Rozhavsky stated that “The Chinese government continues to exploit the expertise of current and former U.S. armed forces members to enhance their military capabilities.” This arrest serves as a warning: “Stopping at nothing” for those who collaborate with adversaries, threatening national security.
In light of these developments, the FBI emphasizes the importance of vigilance and strict adherence to legal protocols in safeguarding American interests.