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Ex-US Air Force major arrested for training Chinese military pilots in secret

From nuclear weapons expert to accused traitor: How a decorated pilot's two years in China sparked a high-stakes espionage case. The FBI warns of a growing threat.

,   and  Administrator
1 min read
The image shows a Chinese propaganda poster featuring two men in military uniforms, one of whom is...
The image shows a Chinese propaganda poster featuring two men in military uniforms, one of whom is holding a rifle. The poster also contains text, likely providing further information about the poster.

Ex-US Air Force major arrested for training Chinese military pilots in secret

A former US Air Force major has been arrested for allegedly training Chinese military pilots in military time. Gerald Eddie Brown Jr., 65, faces charges under the Arms Export Control Act after returning from two years in China. Authorities claim he shared sensitive fighter jet expertise with the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and answered detailed questions about US Air Force operations.

Brown began arranging his employment in China as early as August 2023. By December that year, he had travelled there to work as an 'instructor fighter pilot'. Over two years, he reportedly trained PLAAF pilots, answered detailed questions about US Air Force operations, and prepared presentations on his experience.

The FBI has warned that China actively recruits former US military personnel to strengthen its own forces. Brown's background made him a valuable target: during his 24-year career, he commanded units handling nuclear weapons delivery systems and led combat missions. He also specialised in training US troops on advanced aircraft, including the F-35 Lightning II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and F-15 Eagle.

This is not the first case of its kind. In 2017, former US Marine Corps pilot Daniel Edmund Duggan was charged for training Chinese pilots in aircraft carrier operations. Brown is the first American to return from China since leaving to work there.

If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $1 million for each violation of the Arms Export Control Act.

Brown's arrest highlights ongoing concerns about foreign military recruitment of US personnel. His case follows a pattern of former service members allegedly sharing restricted knowledge with China. The outcome of the trial will determine whether he faces the maximum penalties under the law.

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