Chinese national charged for photographing US stealth bomber base

Authorities say Qilin Wu illegally entered the US and took photos of sensitive military equipment

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A 35-year-old Chinese national named Qilin Wu has been charged in federal court after allegedly photographing a U.S. Air Force stealth bomber base and other military equipment without authorization. Wu illegally entered the U.S. in 2023 near the Arizona-Mexico border and was initially released by immigration authorities due to a lack of detention space, before later being arrested for the alleged photography incident at Whiteman Air Force Base, home to the military's B-2 Spirit stealth bomber fleet.

Why it matters

The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber is an exceptionally sensitive military asset due to its nuclear and stealth capabilities, making any unauthorized photography or surveillance of the aircraft and its base a serious national security concern. This case highlights the ongoing challenge of securing U.S. military installations from potential foreign espionage efforts.

The details

Authorities say Wu was first caught near Whiteman Air Force Base on Dec. 2, 2023, where he was warned not to take photos or videos. The next day, he allegedly returned and was found with 18 photos and videos of the base, including its perimeter, gates, and military equipment. Wu also admitted to taking photos of another U.S. Air Force base. He faces one federal charge of photographing a vital military installation without authorization.

  • On Dec. 2, 2023, Wu was first caught near Whiteman Air Force Base and warned not to take photos.
  • On Dec. 3, 2023, Wu was arrested after allegedly returning to Whiteman Air Force Base and taking 18 photos and videos of the base and its equipment.

The players

Qilin Wu

A 35-year-old Chinese national who illegally entered the U.S. in 2023 and is accused of photographing a U.S. Air Force stealth bomber base and other military equipment without authorization.

Whiteman Air Force Base

A U.S. Air Force base that is home to the military's B-2 Spirit stealth bomber fleet, an exceptionally sensitive asset due to its nuclear and stealth capabilities.

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What’s next

If convicted, Wu could face up to one year in federal prison.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing threat of foreign espionage efforts targeting sensitive U.S. military installations and equipment, highlighting the need for robust security measures to protect critical national security assets.