An intelligence analysis of the Chinese spy balloon that flew across the US in 2023 has revealed that it contained technology from multiple American companies, enabling Beijing to gather intelligence over sensitive areas. While the Biden administration initially brushed off concerns, investigators have confirmed that at least five US firms supplied components used in the balloon’s surveillance systems.
According to a classified military report, the balloon’s tech payload included satellite communication modules and imaging equipment designed to collect and transmit intelligence. The report identified US-based Texas Instruments, Omega Engineering, Amphenol All Sensors Corporation, and onsemi as suppliers of key components. STMicroelectronics, a Swiss manufacturer, was also linked to parts recovered from the device.
🚨The Chinese spy balloon that traveled over half of the U.S. in 2023 was packed with technology produced by at least five private American companies.⁰
It's troubling that our adversaries can purchase U.S. tech and use it to spy on the American people. https://t.co/zdvQyTGNpQ— House Homeland GOP (@HomelandGOP) February 11, 2025
Further analysis of the balloon’s structure revealed empty storage bays, suggesting that it could have been designed to deploy additional surveillance tools, such as small gliders capable of capturing more precise data. Research from Chinese aerospace institutions supports the idea that such technology is actively being developed for military and intelligence purposes.
Chinese spy balloon that traversed US airspace was packed with American tech: report https://t.co/dSRTQo4Tsg pic.twitter.com/Wk8DSZmeV7
— New York Post (@nypost) February 11, 2025
American defense contractor Iridium, whose satellite communication module was found in the balloon, stated that it had no control over how its technology was used once sold. The company acknowledged that its products are available for commercial purchase, with no licensing required unless the buyer is explicitly banned from receiving them.
The people who:
-Supported the FBI spying on parents at school board meetings
-Sent IRS agents to your door
-Praised illegal aliens crossing the border in record numbers
-Let a Chinese spy balloon fly across the country
Have a huge problem with DOGE.
Wonder why?
— Rep. Jim Jordan (@Jim_Jordan) February 11, 2025
The Biden administration attempted to downplay the significance of the balloon, with Biden himself claiming that Chinese officials “didn’t know where it was and didn’t know what was in it.” However, lawmakers were quick to warn that China’s surveillance efforts were part of a broader intelligence-gathering mission.
With American-made technology playing a role in China’s espionage efforts, national security officials are now questioning whether US export controls have been properly enforced. The investigation into how Beijing obtained these components is ongoing.
