State-owned China National Chemical Corp (Sinochem) has denied recent allegations that its Hunan-based subsidiary, Zhuzhou Rubber Research & Design Institute Co Ltd, is involved in military production. In an online statement, Sinochem clarified that the company is a manufacturer of natural latex weather balloons for civilian use and has no connection to military production.
According to Sinochem, the products manufactured by Zhuzhou Rubber Research & Design Institute are primarily used for daily weather forecasting at various meteorological stations. The company’s weather balloons are not related to any type of airships seen in the airspace of the United States.
The statement comes amid concerns about China’s involvement in military research and development. However, Sinochem’s clarification emphasizes that its subsidiary is solely focused on civilian applications and has no involvement in any military-related activities.
Overall, Sinochem’s statement aims to dispel any rumors about Zhuzhou Rubber Research & Design Institute’s alleged involvement in military production, emphasizing the company’s commitment to manufacturing weather balloons for civilian use only.