Colorado Military Bases Face Growing Security Concerns Over Chinese Land Purchases Near Strategic Sites

Colorado's extensive military presence, including vital installations like Peterson Space Force Base, NORAD, and the Air Force Academy, has state security experts increasingly concerned about Chinese efforts to acquire property near critical defense facilities across the American West.

The warning comes as national security officials highlight how foreign adversaries could potentially use legally purchased property for surveillance or strategic operations against U.S. interests - a threat that resonates deeply in Colorado, home to some of America's most sensitive military and space operations.

"After Ukraine's drone operation in Russia and Israel's operation in Iran, it is obvious that America's enemies will try to replicate that playbook on our soil," warns Gabriel Noronha, president of Polaris National Security. "It is increasingly dangerous to allow Chinese companies and individuals to own land - especially near our military bases and critical infrastructure."

Local Impact on Colorado's Defense Community

For the more than 40,000 active duty service members and their families stationed across Colorado's military installations, the threat hits close to home. The state's critical role in national defense makes it a potential target for foreign interference.

Security experts are particularly concerned about:

• Chinese-owned properties near Colorado's military bases and aerospace facilities
• Potential vulnerabilities in local power infrastructure, including solar installations
• Use of Chinese-made drones by Colorado law enforcement agencies
• Data security risks from popular social media platforms like TikTok

Infrastructure Vulnerabilities

According to federal security assessments, Chinese entities have been actively targeting critical infrastructure across the U.S., including power grids and communication networks - systems that Colorado's mountain communities and military installations depend on.

Former FBI Director Christopher Wray has confirmed that Chinese hackers are specifically targeting essential infrastructure including water treatment plants, pipelines, and power grids - a particular concern for Colorado's high-altitude facilities that require secure, reliable utilities.

Legislative Response

While neighboring Arizona recently attempted to restrict Chinese property ownership near military installations, Colorado lawmakers are now facing pressure to consider similar protective measures for the state's critical defense and aerospace sectors.

Michael Lucci, CEO of State Armor Action, emphasizes that land ownership is just the beginning: "Their industrial property holdings are worse, as is their port access. Perhaps worst of all is their deep penetration of critical infrastructure and government systems."

For Colorado's defense-dependent communities from Colorado Springs to Aurora, the stakes couldn't be higher as state leaders grapple with balancing international investment against national security concerns.

This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.