Canada says 'potential second incident' linked to spy balloon

A Chinese spy balloon was spotted flying high over the U.S., the Pentagon said earlier on February 2

This handout photo from Chase Doak taken on February 1, 2023, and released on February 2 shows a suspected Chinese spy balloon in the sky over Billings, Montana. - The Pentagon said on February 2 it was tracking a Chinese spy balloon flying high over the United States, reviving tensions between the two countries just days ahead of a rare visit to Beijing by the top US diplomat. | Photo Credit: AFP

Canada said Thursday it was working with the United States to track a high-altitude surveillance balloon, and it was monitoring a "potential second incident."

"A high-altitude surveillance balloon was detected and its movements are being actively tracked," Canada's defense department said in a statement.

"Canadians are safe and Canada is taking steps to ensure the security of its airspace, including the monitoring of a potential second incident."

"Canada's intelligence agencies are working with American partners and continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard Canada's sensitive information from foreign intelligence threats."

The Pentagon said earlier Thursday it was tracking a Chinese spy balloon flying high over the United States.

A U.S. official said the balloon had flown over the northwest United States, where there are sensitive airbases and strategic nuclear missiles in underground silos.

The Canadian statement did not reference China.