China's Deep-Sea Espionage: A Submerged Threat

China's national security agencies have issued a stark warning about the presence of marine espionage devices in the country's territorial waters. These devices, designed to spy on China's maritime data, pose significant threats to national security. The Ministry of State Security has highlighted various types of these devices, including those that remain on the seabed, covertly collecting hydrographic information and data on ship movements, and others that drift with currents to monitor real-time sea conditions. Some even act as underwater "lighthouses," guiding foreign submarines into China's waters and helping them conceal their movements.

The espionage devices are meticulously developed and manufactured, incorporating the latest scientific and technological advancements. They can operate autonomously for extended periods, be remotely controlled, or function both individually and in networks, allowing for covert and efficient completion of diverse marine detection tasks. These devices can sense and collect sensitive data, store, analyze, and transmit it. Most devices also have a self-destruct feature that activates after they complete their tasks according to preset programs.

National security agencies have advised members of the public to report any discovered espionage equipment immediately by contacting the national security hotline 12339 or its online version. They recommend salvaging and securely handling such devices under the guidance of national security agencies to ensure personal safety. Once back in port, the equipment should be promptly turned over to the national security authorities.

The U.S. Treasury Department's restrictions on American investments in China's high-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence, computer chips, and quantum computing, may impact the development and deployment of these devices. The finalized rule, arising from an executive order issued in August 2023 by President Joe Biden, seeks to limit the access that "countries of concern" have to American dollars to fund technologies that could be used to break codes or develop next-generation fighter jets. This could potentially hinder China's ability to acquire advanced technologies for its underwater espionage devices.