Overview
- France’s domestic intelligence service detained and questioned Pierre-Henri Chuet in the week of July 20, 2026, searched his residence and the investigating magistrate has placed him under formal judicial investigation while he remains free under supervision.
- Prosecutors have opened cases against Chuet for disclosure of national defence secrets, conducting intelligence activities for a foreign power, and collecting or delivering information related to France’s fundamental national interests.
- French reporting alleges Chuet made undeclared trips to China in September 2018 and August 2019 arranged through the Test Flying Academy of South Africa to run short training seminars for Chinese military pilots; Chuet says he only led two three-day seminars and denies passing secrets.
- Chuet drew attention in May 2025 for public commentary during Operation Sindoor that praised Chinese fighters and claimed a Rafale was shot down, a claim denied by Dassault Aviation and Indian authorities.
- The case is being followed as part of a wider allied concern that China recruits former Western military personnel for training and technical know‑how, a pattern that has prompted prosecutions abroad and could raise pressure on veteran contracting and export reputations.