A defense minister has revealed that the MoD is currently investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been advised to avoid talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss secret information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any car, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
The announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
The wider defence situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, from transport use to communication practices.
