A high-ranking Greek Air Force officer has been arrested inside a military facility and faces espionage charges for allegedly transmitting classified NATO operational plans to China, Greek authorities have confirmed.
The 50-year-old colonel, who commanded a unit in the coastal district of Kavouri, is accused of using specialized encryption software to transfer a large volume of sensitive data to foreign handlers.
According to military officials, the arrest took place early Thursday following a monthslong surveillance operation triggered by a tip from a foreign intelligence service.
The suspect was detained in the presence of a military prosecutor and has reportedly confessed to the charges.
Investigators allege the officer had access to restricted archives and was actively attempting to recruit other personnel to widen the breach.
State broadcaster ERT reported that the leaked material included critical details on air defense systems and NATO regional strategy.
"The arrest followed clear indications of criminal acts… namely the collection and transmission of classified military information to third parties," the Hellenic National Defense General Staff said in a statement.
The case marks a major security lapse for the NATO member state and comes as Western allies heighten vigilance against Chinese intelligence activities. The officer remains in custody pending further judicial review.