The United States has blacklisted six Chinese companies over their alleged involvement in the development of spy balloons.
According to the US Department of Commerce, these companies have contributed to China’s People’s Liberation Army aviation programs, including developing hot air balloons.
Now that the companies are on a particular list, it has become virtually impossible for them to buy specific technology from the United States. They can only do this if they receive a special permit from the US government.
Last week, the Americans discovered a Chinese balloon flying over the United States. The balloon was eventually shot down. According to the US State Department, the observation balloon was clearly equipped with spy equipment. China claims it was a weather balloon.
One of the six companies on the blacklist is Beijing Nanjiang Aerospace Technology, a subsidiary of Deluxe Family. According to Chinese state media, the company developed the first civil-military aerospace airship.
Other companies on the blacklist include China Electronics Technology Group Corporation 48th Research Institute, Dongguan Lingkong Remote Sensing Technology, Eagles Men Aviation Science and Technology Group, Guangzhou Tian-Hai-Xiang Aviation Technology and Shanxi Eagles Men Aviation.
