A defence official has stated that the Ministry of Defence is currently investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been instructed to refrain from discussing secret information in any vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about secret information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but stressed that security is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
This announcement follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader security environment underscores the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of government activities, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
