An defence official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been told to avoid talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
He explained that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a concern in all modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a secret level in any car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The wider security situation highlights the significance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of official operations, from vehicle use to communication practices.
