A defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in all vehicles.
Safety Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified material while travelling in China-made cars.
The minister said that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however noted that security is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
This announcement comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been directing laser beams at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader defence environment underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of official operations, from transport usage to communication habits.
