An defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing classified matters in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret information while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but stressed that safety is a issue in all contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
But regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
The revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
This broader security environment underscores the significance of strong measures and vigilance in every areas of official operations, from vehicle usage to communication practices.
