(C) USIN News

SAN DIEGO – A former U.S. Navy petty officer was sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison on Monday for transmitting sensitive military secrets to a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for cash bribes. The case highlights the growing threat of foreign espionage targeting military personnel through social media platforms.

A Betrayal for $12,000
Jinchao Wei, who served aboard the USS Essex, a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship stationed in San Diego, was sentenced to 16 years and 8 months by a federal judge. The sentencing follows his conviction on six counts, including conspiracy to export defense articles and providing national defense information to a foreign government.

Federal prosecutors revealed that Wei’s descent into espionage began in February 2022 when he was approached on social media by an individual claiming to be a "naval enthusiast" working for China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC). Despite initial suspicions regarding the contact’s true identity, Wei entered into an 18-month clandestine relationship.

Over that period, Wei received approximately $12,000 (18 million KRW). In return, he leaked over 60 technical and operational manuals. These documents contained sensitive details about the USS Essex’s weapons control systems, aircraft operations, and deck elevators—critical components of the ship’s combat readiness.

High-Value Military Targets
The USS Essex is a cornerstone of American power projection. As an amphibious assault ship, it is designed to transport and land over 2,000 Marines. Structurally similar to an aircraft carrier, it carries a fleet of roughly 30 aircraft, including the advanced F-35C Lightning II stealth fighters and various attack helicopters.

The information Wei provided offered a blueprint of the ship’s internal vulnerabilities and operational capabilities. Investigators noted that Wei used encrypted messaging applications to bypass security protocols, intentionally hiding his communications from Navy leadership.

"A Historical Lesson in Espionage"
In a letter addressed to the judge prior to sentencing, Wei expressed remorse, claiming he had been manipulated by someone he considered a "friend." "I should never have shared any information with an individual I thought was a confidant," Wei wrote.

However, the court maintained a firm stance. Justice Department officials emphasized that the severity of the sentence reflects the gravity of the betrayal. They warned that foreign intelligence services are increasingly using "social engineering" on digital platforms to recruit young service members who may be enticed by relatively small sums of money.