An defence official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister said that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
However regardless of if you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
The revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This wider security situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, from transport use to discussions habits.
