An defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been advised to avoid talking about classified matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to talk about classified information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but noted that security is a concern in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to disable buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This broader defence environment underscores the importance of strong measures and caution in every areas of official activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
