An defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while personnel have been instructed to avoid talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in China-made cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that security is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug MoD technology into their car, to avoid having conversations at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader defence situation highlights the significance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of government activities, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
