The United States has uncovered dozens of instances in which Chinese nationals, often posing as tourists, have gained unauthorized access to military bases and sensitive sites in the country, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. Citing US officials, the incidents, which have occurred as many as 100 times in recent years, are being described as potential espionage threats. In response to the alarming trend, the Defense Department, FBI, and other agencies conducted a thorough review last year in an attempt to limit these gatecrashers' access to military bases.

The report revealed that the gatecrashers have been found in various locations, ranging from Chinese nationals crossing into a US missile range in New Mexico to scuba divers lurking near a government rocket launch site in Florida. It was found that these incidents primarily occurred in remote regions with little tourism, and typically involved Chinese nationals who were coerced into service and required to report back to the Chinese government. These individuals are believed to have been gathering intelligence on US military capabilities and activities.

The revelation of these incidents comes at a time when the US and China are attempting to ease tensions between them, particularly in the wake of a suspected high-altitude spy balloon incident in February. The balloon, allegedly launched by China, had crossed into US territory before being shot down by the US military off the East Coast. The Wall Street Journal report highlights the significance of this ongoing issue and the urgent need for heightened security measures at US military installations. The Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security have yet to respond to the report's findings, leaving many questioning the extent of the government's awareness and preparedness in handling these espionage threats.