A defence official has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the possible threats posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been told to refrain from discussing secret information in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss secret information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified level in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
The revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider security situation highlights the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of official operations, from transport use to discussions practices.
