As the debris from the Chinese spy balloon continues to be examined by the FBI and a clearer picture of its capabilities and intentions emerge, news has revealed that the balloon was collecting highly sensitive communications signals with the help of specialized antennas. This raises suspicion and questions as to why China would fly this balloon right over key U.S. military and nuclear sites, likely capturing images of these locations as it drifted across America.

A senior State Department official reported that this high-altitude balloon had been used by China for surveillance operations in more than 40 countries around the world, sparking outrage from U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill who are demanding action from the Biden administration regarding why it wasn’t taken down earlier.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy criticized their inaction for allowing the balloon to cross over sovereign US airspace before taking any action, while Senator Jon Tester questioned why they allowed it such free access despite repeated warnings about potential risks posed by China both economically and militarily.

The recent discovery of antennas meant to intercept communications signals has further fueled tensions between China and American authorities, leading some people to wonder what might come next if no action is taken against Chinese espionage activities. With China’s persistent efforts to expand their influence in every corner of the world, these concerns are only increasing as more evidence comes out about their intrusive operations across multiple continents.

As a result, members of Congress are calling for an immediate response from the White House concerning this incident, one that will set a clear line on how far Beijing can push their boundaries without facing consequences.