An defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been advised to refrain from talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss classified information while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
The revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been directing lasers at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation highlights the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in every areas of official activities, including transport usage to discussions habits.
