Some high-resolution photos of China’s newest aircraft carrier, still under construction, have gained widespread attention online. The photos, which clearly show details of the carrier’s structure, first appeared on the site of Japan’s Kyodo News Service. They were taken by employees of Kyodo News Service, according to a report in China National Defense News.

The aircraft carrier is an important weapon for China. Taking photos of the carrier is strictly forbidden. The fact that Japanese employees managed to snap photos of the ship despite heavy security is something of a wake-up call.

Citing several examples from history, the report noted that keeping military secrets is a matter that affects state security and the potential for war. Prior to the first Sino-Japanese War (1894–95), Japanese spies learned the departure time of Chinese ships heading to Korea for reinforcements. Using this information, the Japanese navy ambushed the Chinese ships transporting soldiers. Later, during Japan’s aggression against China in 1930s, large numbers of Japanese came to China to survey the terrain, resources and social conditions of China, providing intelligence to the invading Japanese army.

With the rapid advancement of technology such as big data and unmanned civil aircraft, it has become even easier to steal such secrets. In the meantime, foreign spies have started penetrating all sectors of society.

The report calls for the creation of an effective system to prevent confidential information leaks and improve state security education. April 15 was designated as China’s first National Security Education Day. In addition, authorities will promote education through posters, advertisements, film and even WeChat articles.

The report additionally calls for strict management of certain groups. Military fans have become a high-risk group for the leaking of confidential information. In the past, some have shared images of advanced weapons before official photos were released. Overseas military institutions and personnel have obtained significant intelligence in this way.