French intelligence investigates former Rafale pilot over alleged China ties

A former French Navy pilot who flew Rafale fighter jets has been placed under formal investigation in Paris over allegations of providing intelligence services to China.

Pierre-Henri Chuet, a retired pilot who also operates a YouTube channel, appeared before an investigating judge on July 20, 2026, after being interrogated by French domestic intelligence services. His home was also searched as part of the probe.

Chuet faces serious charges, including the disclosure of national defense secrets by someone entrusted with their confidentiality, intelligence gathering for a foreign power, collecting information detrimental to national interests, and transmitting information to a foreign entity. He has been placed under judicial supervision.

While the "mise en examen" designation indicates a judge believes there is sufficient evidence for a formal investigation, it is not a conviction. Chuet, who trained with the U.S. Navy and completed over 200 carrier landings, spent eight years in a combat squadron before becoming a commercial pilot. His expertise with the Rafale M fighter jet is considered highly valuable.

Controversy surrounding Chuet's YouTube activities escalated last year. In one video, he claimed India lost a Rafale jet during clashes with Pakistan in May 2025, a statement India denied. In other videos, he openly praised Chinese-made fighter jets like the Chengdu J-10C and JF-17 Thunder, as well as the PL-15 air-to-air missile.