Gowadia, 66, has spent the past five years in prison. “We’re a little disappointed she didn’t give him a life sentence, that would’ve sent the best message. But 32 years is stiff and in many ways an appropriate sentence for him,” said Ken Sorenson, assistant US attorney.
The sentencing of Mumbai-born Gowadia comes weeks after China conducted a flight test of its new J-20 stealth fighter. He showed no emotion as Chief US District Judge Susan Oki Mollway pronounced the punishment on Monday. Prosecutors alleged that Gowadia helped design an exhaust nozzle for China that gives off less heat, making it difficult for enemy infrared detectors to track the missile for which he got $110,000 over two years.
A US federal jury in August convicted Gowadia of 14 counts, including conspiracy, communicating national defense information to aid a foreign nation, and violating the arms export control act.
“We believe very strongly that he’s innocent and we very much look forward to the appeals process in the 9th circuit,” Gowadia’s son, Ashton said. The court papers stated, Gowadia hid proceeds from the transactions by directing the payments to secret Swiss bank accounts of foundations he set up in Liechtenstein, the government said in recently filed court documents.
Gowadia worked for Northrup from 1968 to 1986, during which time he helped develop the B-2 bomber’s unique propulsion system. After his employment with Northrup ended, Gowadia continued his relationship with the US military as a private contractor. PTI
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