In February 2023, a Chinese spy balloon entered US airspace, causing panic as it floated over sensitive military sites. Despite China’s claims of civilian use, its trajectory near Malmstrom Air Force Base raised alarms. Retired General Glen VanHerck criticized intelligence agencies for failing to inform him before the balloon's entry into US jurisdiction. The balloon was spotted days before its shoot down at the directive of President Biden, who faced Pentagon opposition due to concerns of civilian casualties. This event highlights significant lapses in the coordination of national defense and intelligence-sharing protocols.
It's a failure of multiple intelligence, Department of Defense agencies. I should not get surprised by something that's coming into my area of responsibility ... Anybody who knows about it should pass that on.
The president suggested the high-altitude balloon should be shot down, but the Pentagon opposed the move, fearing civilian casualties if the giant balloon exploded.
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