An defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats posed by Chinese cars, while personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing classified information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to discuss secret information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister explained that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, but stressed that security is a concern in every modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
The revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider security environment underscores the importance of robust measures and vigilance in all areas of government activities, from transport use to communication practices.
