A defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in China-made cars.
He explained that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however noted that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
This announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This broader defence situation underscores the importance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of official operations, including transport usage to discussions habits.
