The constitutional protection agency in Saarland has identified several research institutions in the state as potential targets for Chinese intelligence services. According to the agency, many research institutes in Saarland operate in one of ten strategically important future sectors, making them of significant interest to Chinese intelligence agencies.
Specific institutions mentioned include the Cispa-Helmholtz Center for Information Security, the German Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI), the Max Planck Institute for Informatics, the Max Planck Institute for Softwaresystems, and the Leibniz Center for Informatics. Furthermore, the authority noted that research institutions and professorships at the University of Saarland focusing on biotechnology, medical technology, and energy and environmental technology could also be at risk.
Adding to these concerns, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) issued a strong warning. The BfV stated that for years, China has implemented a comprehensive system of technology and know-how transfer, which forms the core of its scientific espionage efforts to fuel its economic and military development.
The agency explained that this procurement does not always happen through intelligence networks; rather, it occurs “predominantly through legal means,” such as collaborative and exchange programs with leading German universities and research facilities. The authority reported that all relevant findings derived from this activity are likely being made accessible to the Chinese military and defense industry.
