Bangladesh, Aug. 24 -- The conviction of US Navy sailor Jinchao “Patrick” Wei this week marks one of the most serious espionage cases involving the American military in recent years. Wei, a 25-year-old machinists mate assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Essex, was found guilty on six federal charges, including conspiracy to commit espionage, espionage, and unlawful export of technical defense data in violation of the Arms Export Control Act. His conviction underscores the growing concern in Washington about foreign recruitment of military insiders, particularly by Chinese intelligence services.

Weis case highlights not only the vulnerabilities within the US military but also the personal choices and temptations that c...