A former civilian contractor for the U.S. Department of Defense has been indicted in Germany for allegedly offering to spy for the Chinese government. Identified only as Martin D., the American citizen was arrested in Frankfurt in early November 2024. German federal prosecutors announced the indictment on Monday, citing national security concerns.
According to German authorities, the man worked for a U.S. military contractor from 2017 until early 2023. Beginning in 2020, he was stationed at an undisclosed U.S. military facility in Germany. Prosecutors say that in the summer of 2024, he contacted Chinese intelligence representatives multiple times and expressed willingness to pass along classified or sensitive military information.
While it remains unclear what level of access the suspect had to such material, prosecutors confirmed he had not successfully transferred any data to Chinese officials before his arrest. German media reports suggest the suspect’s efforts to commit espionage were thwarted before any breach occurred.
The indictment charges Martin D. with attempting to engage in espionage for a foreign intelligence service. His case has been forwarded to the state court in Koblenz, which will determine whether it proceeds to trial.
This case comes at a time of growing concern over foreign espionage and cyber threats targeting U.S. military infrastructure abroad. It also highlights vulnerabilities in contractor oversight and the need for strong counterintelligence protocols in overseas military installations.
If found guilty, Martin D. could face severe penalties under German law. The court has not yet announced a trial date.
