A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but noted that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified level in any car, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The broader defence environment highlights the importance of strong protocols and caution in every aspects of official activities, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
