A Veteran Pilot’s Path to Controversy (Image Credits: Nypost.com)
Jeffersonville, Indiana – Federal authorities arrested a former U.S. Air Force major accused of delivering combat training to pilots in China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force without required government approval.[1][2]
A Veteran Pilot’s Path to Controversy
Gerald Eddie Brown Jr., 65, built a distinguished 24-year career in the Air Force before retiring from active duty as a major in 1996. He earned the call sign “Runner” while commanding units responsible for nuclear weapons delivery systems and leading combat missions. Brown also instructed pilots on advanced aircraft through simulator training.[1]
After his military service, he flew commercial cargo planes and later worked as a contract instructor for U.S. defense firms. His expertise extended to the F-35 Lightning II, A-10 Thunderbolt II, F-4 Phantom II, F-15 Eagle, and F-16 Fighting Falcon. Prosecutors now allege this background fueled a conspiracy that violated export control laws.[3]
Allegations of Unauthorized Training Abroad
Investigators claim Brown conspired since at least August 2023 with U.S. persons and foreign nationals to train Chinese pilots. He traveled to China in December 2023, where he messaged a co-conspirator: “Now…. I have the chance to fly and instruct fighter pilots again!” On his first day, he fielded questions about the U.S. Air Force for three hours. The next day, he presented a briefing about himself to PLAAF members.[1]
Brown remained in China until early February 2026 before returning to the United States. Authorities arrested him on February 25 in Jeffersonville. He faces charges under the Arms Export Control Act for providing defense services without a State Department license, as required by International Traffic in Arms Regulations.[2]
Links to a Convicted Hacker Emerge
A co-conspirator negotiated Brown’s contract with Stephen Su Bin, a Chinese national who pleaded guilty in 2016 to hacking U.S. defense contractors for sensitive data. Su Bin’s firm appeared on a U.S. commerce blacklist in 2014. Brown’s résumé highlighted his goal as an “Instructor Fighter Pilot,” aligning with the role pitched to him.[1]
Officials described the arrangement as a direct transfer of American military know-how to an adversary. The case mirrors that of former Marine pilot Daniel Edmund Duggan, charged in 2017 for similar training and awaiting extradition from Australia.[4]
National Security Warnings Amplify Concerns
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg stated, “The United States Air Force trained Major Brown to be an elite fighter pilot and entrusted him with the defense of our Nation. He now stands charged with training Chinese military pilots.” FBI Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky called it a betrayal that jeopardized U.S. service members.[1]
U.S. warnings about China’s recruitment of Western aviators date back years. A 2024 multinational bulletin highlighted People’s Liberation Army efforts to bolster capabilities through ex-military talent. Air Force leaders have urged veterans to safeguard tactics even after retirement.[4]
- Aircraft Brown instructed on: F-35 Lightning II, A-10 Thunderbolt II, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-4 Phantom II.
- Key violation: No license for defense services under Arms Export Control Act.
- Conspiracy start: August 2023.
- Arrest date: February 25, 2026.
- Similar case: Daniel Duggan, charged 2017.
Key Takeaways
- Brown’s alleged actions exposed U.S. training methods to a strategic rival.
- Export controls aim to prevent such expertise transfers.
- China targets veterans to close military gaps, per U.S. intelligence.
This arrest underscores the ongoing vigilance required against illicit technology sharing. As tensions persist, cases like Brown’s remind former service members of their enduring obligations. What do you think about the risks of military expertise abroad? Tell us in the comments.