U.S. Defense Secrets Sold to Russians for Millions in Crypto

A man working for an American defense contractor has been jailed in the United States for seven years for selling trade secrets to a buyer with ties to Russia.

Williams was working as general manager of Trenchant, an intelligence firm owned by U.S. defense contractor L3Harris Technologies. (Photo: L3Harris Technologies Facebook)

Peter Williams, 39, an Australian national, admitted to selling eight pieces of cybersecurity software and related information to a Russian broker for contracts worth up to $4 million in cryptocurrency.

He received $1.3 million for what he provided and used the proceeds to buy jewelry, watches, homes, and luxury holidays, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, Brendan Cole reported for Newsweek.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the tools Williams passed to the Russians could have enabled Moscow to access millions of digital devices, adding that his crime was not only theft but also a national security breach.

Williams was working as general manager of Trenchant, an intelligence firm owned by U.S. defense contractor L3Harris Technologies, Australian media reported.

The firm specializes in tools that help intelligence agencies among U.S. allies exploit vulnerabilities in computer networks and mobile devices.

Between April 2022 and August 2025, Williams used his access to the contractor’s secure network to steal sensitive cyber-exploit components intended only for the U.S. government and selected allies.

He continued the transactions even after learning he was under FBI investigation.

Authorities said he used the proceeds to purchase a 2022 Tesla Model X, a 2018 Porsche Panamera, jewelry, watches, clothing, and properties.