Wu was a subordinate of Lin Biao, in 1965 he became the commander of People's Liberation Army Air Force.

After Lin's failed coup, he was imprisoned as part of the post-Lin purges.

In 1981 he was declared guilty as a member of the Lin Biao group and sentenced to 17 years in prison.

However, due to good behavior and his past meritorious service, as well as ailing health, he was released later the same year when he was given a house, car and a monthly pension as his party membership and titles were restored.

He was given a state funeral when he died in 2004 which was attended by many former subordinates as well as representatives from the PLA.