Cybersecurity

Chinese hackers stole US sea warfare data, including on supersonic missile – report

Some 614 gigabytes on a secretive US Navy project was reportedly stolen from a contractor, who kept the data unclassified despite the sensitivity of the information, which includes the Pentagon’s plan for a supersonic missile.

Breaches that could deal a heavy blow to the US military’s bid to dominate the waters near the disputed islands in the South China Sea took place at least twice, in January and February this year, US officials told The Washington Post.

The data that was compromised by what officials believe were Chinese hackers working for the state intelligence agency concerns the Sea Dragon project, which is aimed at “integrating an existing weapon system with an existing Navy platform.” The hackers reportedly gained access to signals and sensor data, as well as submarine radio information. This data can provide a valuable insight into the distance that US submarines may be able to detect their Chinese adversaries. According to the investigators, the operatives of the Chinese Ministry of State Security also obtained the Navy’s submarine development unit library, which offers a glimpse into hundreds of mechanical and software systems used by the Navy.

Among the data seized was also information on the US Navy's plans to mount a supersonic anti-ship missile on a submarine, The Post reported. It did not provide any specifics on the project, saying it was asked by the Navy to withhold the details from the report, so as not to damage US security further.