Ex-Top Gun Pilot Accused of Training CCP Soldiers Loses Appeal Against US Extradition

Daniel Duggan has spent three-and-a-half years in custody over allegations he breached U.S. arms-trafficking laws by training Chinese pilots in South Africa.

Supporters of former U.S. Marine pilot Daniel Duggan outside the ACT Federal Court in Canberra, Australia, on April 16, 2026. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

A former U.S. fighter pilot accused of training Chinese soldiers is set to be extradited from Australia after his appeal was dismissed after a years-long legal battle.

Daniel Duggan has spent three-and-a-half years in custody over allegations he breached U.S. arms-trafficking laws by training Chinese pilots in South Africa between 2010 and 2012.