A Chinese national was arrested at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport after federal authorities say he photographed sensitive military aircraft near Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, one of the Pentagon’s most secure sites. Tianrui Liang, 21, was taken into custody on Monday (April 7) as he attempted to board an international flight, just days after a warrant for his arrest was issued in Nebraska, according to court documents filed in the Eastern District of New York.
Liang is accused of violating a federal law that prohibits photographing defense installations without authorization from a base commander. The case centers on activity near Offutt Air Force Base, which is home to U.S. Strategic Command and hosts high-value reconnaissance and command aircraft, including the RC-135 surveillance plane and the E-4B “Nightwatch,” often called the military’s “doomsday plane.” According to an FBI affidavit, investigators were alerted after a witness saw “a male holding a camera with a telescopic lens” near the base, where aircraft are stationed on the flight line.
Federal agents said Liang admitted to photographing several aircraft at the base, including the RC-135 and E-4B. He told investigators he used a “planespotter” website to find locations to take photos and claimed the images were for his “personal collection,” according to the affidavit. A review of his camera revealed “numerous photographs of planes located on the OAFB flightline,” including images of military aircraft parked on the base.
Authorities allege Liang knowingly photographed restricted military assets without permission. The affidavit noted, “He knew it was illegal to take pictures of the planes on the ground.” Investigators further allege Liang planned to travel to Oklahoma to photograph additional aircraft at Tinker Air Force Base, including the E-4B, and specifically sought out locations where he could view and photograph aircraft from outside military installations.
Liang, a student at Glasgow University in Scotland, had recently traveled through Canada before entering the United States. Prosecutors say there is “probable cause to believe” Liang photographed aircraft at Offutt Air Force Base without the required approval, but the affidavit does not allege he was acting on behalf of any foreign government.
Liang now faces federal charges for photographing defense installations without authorization. Further legal proceedings are expected in the coming weeks.
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