A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, and personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in all cars.
Safety Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, because of the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Defence Context
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This wider security situation underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
