In a surprising development, the profiles of three prominent scientists have vanished from the website of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE). This incident echoes recent high-profile shifts within China’s military leadership and raises questions about the current state of the country’s scientific community.
The scientists affected are Zhao Xiangeng, Wu Manqing, and Wei Yiyin. Zhao is recognized as a leading expert in nuclear weapons, while Wu specializes in radar technology, and Wei focuses on missile design. All three have previously held esteemed positions within the CAE, which serves as a prestigious academic institution for engineering and technological sciences in China.
The CAE has not offered any explanation for the removal of their profiles, which took place on a Saturday, according to the South China Morning Post. Membership in this academy is seen as one of the highest honors in China’s engineering sector.
This occurrence comes just months after a significant overhaul of military leadership under President Xi Jinping, which saw high-ranking generals dismissed over corruption and leaking sensitive information.
Who Are the Scientists?
Zhao Xiangeng: A key figure in China’s nuclear weapons research, Zhao has also worked with Beijing’s Institute of Applied Physics and Computational Mathematics. His contributions to developing nuclear science, particularly in light of test bans, have been notable. He has been affiliated with the CAE since 2011 and served as vice president for two years.
Wu Manqing: As a radar technology expert, Wu was instrumental in creating China’s KJ-500 early-warning aircraft. His work has also spanned various national projects, including military communications and big data applications, making substantial advancements in the field. He has been a CAE member since 2009.
Wei Yiyin: A newer addition to the CAE, having joined in 2019, Wei has experience in developing defense products, including missile systems, during his time as vice general manager of the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation.
What’s Next?
As of now, there is no clear reasoning from Beijing regarding the disappearance of these scientists’ profiles. Past events suggest that such actions could point to disciplinary measures. In 2017, an environmental scientist was removed for serious violations, while more recent reports have detailed the expulsions of other prominent figures amid ongoing anti-corruption campaigns targeting the military and defense sectors.
With the current atmosphere of scrutiny surrounding China’s military and scientific establishments, the sudden absence of Zhao, Wu, and Wei raises further concerns about potential upcoming changes or purges. Whether these three experts are facing similar consequences remains uncertain, but the situation continues to evolve.
