An defense official has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese cars, while personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing secret information in any cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been told not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
He said that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but noted that security is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those secret talks in protected areas. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Defence Context
The announcement comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider defence environment underscores the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, from transport usage to discussions practices.
