China jails ex-defense tech official for 10 years in $6.3 million corruption case

A former senior Chinese defense official has been sentenced to a decade in prison for accepting bribes totaling more than 43 million yuan (US$6.3 million). Zhang Jianhua, who previously served as the deputy head of China’s State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence, was convicted by the Dazhou Intermediate People’s Court in Sichuan province.

The court heard evidence of the extensive bribery during proceedings on Wednesday. This conviction underscores China's continued efforts to purge corruption from its military and defense sectors. The anti-corruption drive has seen numerous officials across various government branches face investigation and prosecution.

The State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence plays a crucial role in China's military modernization and technological advancement. Zhang's position within this agency highlights the significance of the anti-corruption efforts targeting sensitive areas of national security and defense.