Greek Air Force Colonel Arrested for Alleged Espionage for China

Greek Air Force Colonel Detained on Espionage Charges

A 54-year-old Greek Air Force colonel has been arrested and has reportedly confessed to operating as a spy for a Chinese intelligence network. The officer is accused of passing highly classified information, including details related to Patriot missile systems, high-tech development programs, and sensitive Air Force software, to China for financial gain. The arrest occurred in Kavouri, Attica, following an investigation initiated by a tip-off from the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Details of the Allegations and Recruitment

The colonel, identified in some reports as Christos Flessas, was a specialist with NATO certification in telecommunications and held significant positions within the General Staff. His roles provided him with access to critical military intelligence, including surveying military bases across Greece and Europe, assessing radars, air defense networks, and critical infrastructure. He was also reportedly involved in the modernization of Patriot systems and the development of reconnaissance aircraft.

Investigations suggest the recruitment process began approximately two years ago via an online messaging application. Initially, handlers requested 'consultancy nature' information, with demands escalating to more sensitive data as financial rewards increased. The recruitment was reportedly finalized during a trip to China in 2024. Subsequently, a Chinese handler allegedly traveled to Greece to provide the colonel with an encryption device used to transmit photographed classified documents.

Motive and Ongoing Investigation

During interrogation by the National Intelligence Service (EYP), the officer admitted his primary motive was financial gain, reportedly requesting payments in Chinese yuan. Authorities have since traced a money trail through digital footprints. The colonel was arrested at the 128th Telecommunications and Electronics Training Group (SETI) in Kavouri, where he had become commander in July 2024.

Felony charges have been brought against him under Article 144 of the Military Penal Code (Law 2287/1995), concerning the 'Transmission of Military Secrets,' which carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years or life imprisonment. He has been suspended from duty and remains in custody pending formal testimony. The EYP is actively working to verify the identity of the Chinese handler named by the colonel and is searching for at least two other individuals he is alleged to have recruited into the network.

International Implications

The case has raised significant concerns within NATO and the United States, given the colonel's critical position within NATO intelligence. Military sources suggest his arrest was finalized just before he could transmit further high-tech Greek military secrets. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of counter-espionage efforts in Europe, with some officials describing it as one of the most serious security breaches in recent years.