In February, the United States shot down a Chinese balloon it accused of conducting surveillance activities, revealing that the balloon had utilized a US internet service provider to exchange information with China. The incident underscores the intricate nature of international technological dependencies and the challenges in managing sensitive global communications involving US entities.
The Chinese surveillance balloon above Billings, Montana, on February 1. (Source: AFP – Getty Images file.Chase Doak)
Chinese Balloon Alleged as Spy
According to NBC News, a Chinese balloon, shot down by the United States in February over allegations of conducting surveillance, reportedly utilized a US internet service provider for communication with China. Citing two current and one former US official, the report suggests that the balloon, which the US military accused of engaging in surveillance activities upon flying over the country, employed a US-based internet service provider to transmit data to and from China. The Chinese government contended that the balloon served a civilian purpose, conducting scientific research.
The specific US internet service provider involved in the communication was not disclosed in the report, as the intelligence assessment chose not to name the company. The company allegedly refuted claims of the balloon using its network, citing its investigation and discussions with US officials. As part of the response to the balloon’s activities, the Biden administration reportedly sought approval from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to gather intelligence while the balloon traversed the US airspace. However, the report does not provide clarity on the court’s decision regarding this request. The incident highlights the complex interplay of international surveillance concerns, technological dependencies, and the involvement of US entities in potentially sensitive global communications.
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