An defense official has revealed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while personnel have been advised to refrain from talking about classified information in all cars.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese cars.
He stated that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a issue in all contemporary vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified classification in any car, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
The announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The wider security situation underscores the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of government operations, including transport use to discussions practices.
