A former French naval aviator has been charged on suspicion of spying for China.

A former French naval fighter pilot was formally charged on July 23 with several national security offenses, including collusion with a foreign power, collecting and transmitting information concerning the nation's fundamental interests, and disclosing national defense secrets. Initially detained before his court appearance, he was released under judicial supervision. The investigation, now being handled by an investigating judge, focuses on his alleged ties to China.

The case originated with a report filed by the Ministry of the Armed Forces in February 2025. This report indicated suspicions of activities incompatible with the individual's obligations as a former member of the military, also mentioning possible offenses related to violations of orders, holding multiple jobs, and money laundering of tax fraud proceeds. The investigation was entrusted to the General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI).

Trips to China at the heart of the investigation

Investigators are particularly interested in several trips to China in 2018 and 2019, while the individual was still serving in the French armed forces. According to the investigation, these trips were undertaken without informing his superiors, contrary to military regulations. He was allegedly paid for these missions by a company based in South Africa.

The former pilot denies any espionage activity. He claims to have only participated in two seminars lasting a few days and asserts that he never returned to China after his second trip. Known to the public for his YouTube channel with over 560,000 subscribers, he remains presumed innocent. The investigation will now have to determine whether the alleged actions constitute illegal collaboration with a foreign power or legitimate activities.