Full Breakdown
U.S. House Committee Calls for Review of Safran's Ventures in China
3/21/2026, 10:24:40 AM
Congressional Concerns Over Safran's Activities
On March 20, 2026, Representative John Moolenaar, chair of the House Select Committee on China, requested the Pentagon to review the joint ventures of French aerospace company Safran in China. Moolenaar expressed concerns that Safran's commercial ties with Chinese companies, particularly its collaborations with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), may inadvertently support the military capabilities of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). In a letter addressed to Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, Moolenaar highlighted that while Safran's activities are commercially oriented, they could still contribute to advancements in Chinese military technology.
Specific Ventures Under Scrutiny
Moolenaar's letter detailed several joint ventures that raised red flags. Notably, Safran established a partnership with the Shanghai Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation (SAM) in 2012 to produce an electrical wiring connection system for the Chinese C919 commercial aircraft. SAM has been linked to the manufacturing and repair of Chinese military aircraft. Additionally, Safran's joint venture with AVIC subsidiary Xi'an Aircraft Industry Group (XAC) in 2011 produced nacelles for jet engines, which have military applications. Moolenaar noted that XAC has also been involved in projects related to Chinese military aircraft.
Broader Implications for U.S. National Security
Moolenaar emphasized the importance of ensuring that American defense contractors do not inadvertently support the Chinese military. He stated, "We expect Western companies who do business with the U.S. government to work with us in good faith to unwind relationships that undermine U.S. national security." This statement reflects a growing concern among U.S. lawmakers regarding the potential implications of foreign partnerships on national defense.
Official Responses
In response to Moolenaar's request, the Pentagon indicated that it would address the concerns raised in the letter directly. Safran and the Chinese embassy in Washington did not provide immediate comments regarding the allegations. Moolenaar's committee has been actively reviewing the activities of American and Western aerospace companies in China, including Airbus, which has also faced scrutiny for its ties to Chinese firms.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the committee's approach argue that the scrutiny of Safran and similar companies may hinder international collaboration in aerospace innovation. They contend that such reviews could lead to unnecessary tensions between the U.S. and its allies, particularly in the context of global supply chains and technological advancements.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While Safran’s ventures in China are commercial in nature, its work with these AVIC subsidiaries may directly support entities that help advance the CCP’s military capabilities,” — John Moolenaar, Chair, House Select Committee on China
- “We expect Western companies who do business with the U.S. government to ?work with us in good faith to unwind relationships that undermine U.S. national security,” — John Moolenaar, Chair, House Select Committee on China
This ongoing investigation into Safran's operations in China underscores the complexities of international business relationships and their potential implications for national security.
