Qian Xuesen: The missile genius America lost and China gained (2025) | Hacker News

A Hacker News discussion focuses on Qian Xuesen, a Chinese rocket scientist expelled from the U.S. who later helped build China’s missile program.

Commenters debate whether his removal was justified at the time or a major policy mistake in hindsight.

The case is often cited as an example of how political decisions can transfer critical scientific talent and affect long-term military capability.