- U.S. intelligence, by contrast, has claimed that the balloon was a tool of espionage and was carrying thousands of pounds of sophisticated surveillance equipment.
- U.S. officials also say that the aircraft was equipped with small rotors and propellers, suggesting that rather than being ‘blown off course’ the balloon was deliberately flown into U.S. airspace and steered toward specific areas of interest.
- “On Saturday, 4 February, immediately after taking action to down the PRC balloon, the DOD submitted a request for a secure call between Secretary Austin and PRC Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe,” Brigadier General Pat Ryder said.
