Jinchao Wei, a 22-year-old crewman aboard the USS Essex in San Diego, was arrested Wednesday on charges of espionage and conspiracy to send sensitive military and national security information to Chinese authorities, U.S. officials said.

The US Department of Justice also accused Wangong Zhao, 26, of accepting bribes from a Chinese government agent in exchange for sending sensitive military photos and videos.

Federal officials provided more details about the cases at a news conference in San Diego on Thursday.

The two American sailors face similar charges of spying for China, but it is unclear if they are related.

Federal prosecutors say Jinchao Wei contacted an unnamed Chinese government intelligence officer in February 2022 and at his request was provided with photos and videos from the ship they were serving on.

He is accused of providing the Chinese agent with photos, videos, information and instructions from the USS Essex, as well as details of Marine personnel and training during a recent exercise.

Another officer, Wenheng Zhao, is also accused of providing the Chinese agent with sensitive photos and videos of the US military, including operational plans for US military exercises in the Indo-Pacific region.

The amphibious assault ship USS Essex has a helipad and full flight deck and is capable of carrying a fleet of helicopters.