A Chinese spy balloon has entered US airspace to explore highly sensitive nuclear weapons bases, according to the Pentagon. The balloon is being closely monitored, a senior US Defense Department official said Thursday (local time). A possible launch was rejected because it might have endangered too many people. The risk of being spied on is relatively low.
The “relatively large” balloon entered US airspace a few days ago and is flying at high altitudes over the northwestern US, said the official, who wished to remain anonymous. His path had previously been followed by the US military. “The balloon’s purpose is clearly espionage and its current path is through sensitive bases,” the Pentagon official said. These include air bases and underground missile sites.
“We have no doubt that the balloon comes from China,” he said. “We take steps to protect against the collection of sensitive information.” However, according to the Pentagon, the danger is not particularly great. “We have come to the conclusion that this balloon has limited capabilities from an espionage perspective.”
Possible launch is under further investigation
Following the discovery of the balloon, U.S. President Joe Biden reportedly ordered investigations into a possible launch. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and top military officials ultimately decided against it because too many people on the ground could be endangered if they were shot by the falling parts. “In our estimation, it is so large that its fragments can cause damage.” According to information, fighter jets flew near the balloon over the US state of Montana to assess it.
“No military or physical threat”
Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder later confirmed that the balloon was still en route over US soil. It flies “well above the level of air traffic” and “poses no military or physical danger to people on the ground”.
According to the anonymous Pentagon official, China has already been contacted about the incident and those responsible have been made clear “the seriousness of the incident”. “We have made it clear that we will do whatever it takes to protect our people and our country.”
Also seen in Canada
Meanwhile, neighboring Canada reported a “possible second incident” involving a surveillance balloon. The balloon had been spotted and “its movements are being actively monitored,” the Ottawa Department of Defense said. Every effort is being made to ensure the safety of Canadian airspace, “including assessing a possible second incident,” it said. Canadian intelligence agencies worked with “US partners,” the ministry said.
Source: Krone
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