In a significant legal development, Germany has charged three of its nationals—Herwig F., Ina F., and Thomas R.—with espionage on allegations of transferring sensitive military technology information to China.

The Federal Prosecutor's Office made the announcement on December 20, 2024, stating that the individuals had acted as agents for the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS).

The case is currently under review by the State Security Senate of the Higher Regional Court of Düsseldorf.

Prosecutors allege that Thomas R.

has been functioning as an operative for the MSS since 2017.

He is accused of collaborating with Herwig F.

and Ina F., who are spouses, to collect and disseminate information relevant to 'militarily usable innovative technologies.' According to the prosecution, the group operated under direct instruction from the MSS and received financial compensation for their efforts.

Operating through a company based in Düsseldorf and managed by Herwig F.

and Ina F., the defendants reportedly developed connections with a range of companies and academic institutions.

Over a seven-year period, from February 2017 to April 2024, they are alleged to have gathered advanced technological data that could contribute significantly to China's maritime military capabilities.

This information purportedly included advances in marine engine systems, sonar technologies, aircraft defense mechanisms, armored vehicle propulsion systems, and military-grade drones.

These insights were allegedly transferred by Thomas R.

to his contact within the MSS.

A pivotal component of this allegedly illicit operation was a collaboration agreement with a German university, which facilitated scientific exchanges.

Initially targeting the development of a study for a Chinese partner on the current technological landscape of slide bearings used in ship engines, the partnership was in fact with an MSS operative.

This project was reportedly funded by Chinese state entities, with Thomas R.

receiving assignments from the MSS.

The arrests of the accused spies occurred on April 22, 2024.

Thomas R.

remains in custody, while Herwig F.

and Ina F.

have been granted release from detention.

This case accentuates the persistent concerns surrounding technological espionage and highlights the intricate methods that intelligence operatives reportedly use to acquire and transfer classified information.

It also sheds light on the global challenges that industrial espionage presents, as countries grapple with safeguarding sensitive technological advancements.