Authorities in Greece and France have launched separate investigations into suspected Chinese-linked espionage operations, raising security concerns over potential attempts to obtain military secrets, satellite data, and sensitive NATO-related information.
The two cases, announced this week, involve alleged efforts to transfer classified military data to China, prompting heightened scrutiny among European and NATO security agencies.
Greek Military Officer Arrested Over Classified Data Leak
Greek military authorities arrested a colonel suspected of transmitting highly classified military information to Chinese entities, according to the Hellenic National Defence General Staff.
The officer was detained inside the military facility where he was stationed. Investigators believe he had access to sensitive information related to emerging technologies within the Greek Armed Forces and allegedly transmitted classified material electronically from within his unit.
Greek officials stated there are indications that the officer attempted to recruit additional individuals into a broader intelligence network. The country’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that authorities have gathered “clear evidence” suggesting violations of the Military Penal Code, specifically regarding the collection and transmission of military secrets to third parties, potentially harming national interests.
According to Greek media reports, the colonel commanded a training battalion specializing in telecommunications and electronic systems and was stationed at an Air Force unit in Kavouri, granting him access to classified information across multiple branches of Greece’s military and allied NATO forces.
Local outlet Kathimerini reported that investigators discovered a specialized device and software allegedly supplied by Chinese authorities, which was used to photograph classified documents and transmit them to external recipients.
Media reports further claim the officer confessed following his arrest, stating that he was recruited by a Chinese official during an overseas conference and admitted to transmitting classified information in exchange for payment.
The investigation reportedly began approximately two months ago after the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) alerted Greece’s National Intelligence Service that a member of the Greek Armed Forces was sharing sensitive NATO-related intelligence with China. Much of the suspected material is believed to involve NATO military projects, drawing particular concern from allied nations, especially the United States.
France Investigates Suspected Satellite Data Espionage
In a separate case, French authorities have charged four individuals, including two Chinese nationals, with alleged involvement in collecting sensitive military data through satellite interception.
The suspects were arrested in Gironde, southwestern France, where investigators believe the two Chinese nationals rented Airbnb apartments as part of a coordinated plan to gather military intelligence and sensitive satellite data.
The investigation began after local residents noticed the installation of a large satellite antenna measuring approximately two meters in diameter on January 30, coinciding with a local internet outage. Authorities subsequently discovered a computer system connected to satellite antennas, capable of recording satellite communications.
French authorities suspect the installation may have intercepted communications between military entities. Reports indicate that the Chinese nationals allegedly traveled to France to collect data from the Starlink satellite internet system and other critical infrastructure, with the intention of transmitting the information to China.
The French investigation focuses on allegations of transmitting sensitive national security information to a foreign power, an offense punishable by up to 15 years in prison under French law.
Two suspects remain in custody, while two others have been placed under judicial supervision. Additional charges involve the illegal importation of specialized electronic equipment, according to the French Press Agency (AFP).
Broader Security Concerns Across Europe and NATO
Authorities in both countries are continuing investigations to determine the scope of compromised information, the identities of potential recipients, and whether the cases are linked to wider intelligence networks operating in Europe.
The developments come amid growing concerns among European and NATO officials over foreign espionage targeting advanced military technologies, satellite systems, and defense cooperation projects.
Security analysts warn that such incidents highlight the increasing strategic competition in intelligence operations, particularly involving critical infrastructure and next-generation defense systems.
