Michael
VIP Member
China's technical confidentiality system is divided into two systems, and then each is divided into three levels.In my opinion, the Chinese approach to work is somewhat different. Their designs tend to be modular, which allows systems to be integrated based on specific requirements. They also manage a critical technology list at the smallest level, controlling what is restricted and what can be incorporated into a system. Therefore, I see it less as China 'watering down' technology and more as providing customized options tailored to requirements, with the exception of certain critical technologies. China was likely aware from the outset of the risk of tech leaks via sources in Pakistan, so I doubt such sensitive technology was ever offered to begin with.
Of course, this is just my speculation. I'm not an expert and don't have any sources in this field, by any means.
Two situations: military system and non-military system
Three levels: 1. 绝密 Top secret; 2. 机密 Confidential; 3. 秘密 Secret (English translation may not be accurate)
Military system:
1. Top secret level. Its name will not be known to the outside world, let alone the technology. It has no possibility of export. These technologies are directly controlled by research institutions or factories directly under the military, and military enterprises cannot access them.
2. Confidential level. The outside world knows its name, but does not know any details. It is also impossible to export.
3. Secret level. The outside world knows its name and some general principles, but is not clear about the details. It is within the scope of export, but requires confidentiality review and contract constraints from the military.
Non-military system (internal confidentiality level of military enterprises):
1. Top secret level. It is roughly equivalent to the confidentiality level of the military system. It is generally under the responsibility of state-owned military enterprises, but they are directly guarded by military representatives stationed by the military.
2. Confidential level. It is roughly equivalent to the secret level of the military system. It is generally also under the responsibility of state-owned military enterprises, managed by military representatives stationed by the military, and guarded by qualified security companies.
3. Secret level. This level has nothing to do with the military and is determined by the military enterprises themselves. You can understand it as the technical secrets of the enterprise. It is generally also protected by qualified security companies.
When evaluating the confidentiality level of science and technology, it may involve dual evaluation of military and non-military systems. Some advanced technologies may originate from non-military systems, but once they are evaluated as having a higher confidentiality level than military systems, the military will intervene.
For example: Twin-Tailed Scorpion UAV
It was originally a UAV project for logistics and transportation jointly developed by two private enterprises in China (Tengdun and JD.com). After the military discovered the value of the project, it quickly negotiated with relevant parties and acquired the project. So it became "TB-001 UAV". The research institute and production factory of the project are still in charge of private enterprises, but the military is responsible for security.
Some technical information of military systems with confidentiality levels can be exported to specific friendly countries under special circumstances, but it requires the consent of very high-level military agencies.
The level of China-Pakistan diplomatic relations is very high. If a certain confidential technology of a military system is approved by the Central Military Commission, it can be exported to Pakistan (a very strict confidentiality agreement and technical supervision are required to prevent it from flowing into a third country).






