An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively looking into the potential threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing classified matters in all vehicles.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to talk about secret information while travelling in Chinese cars.
He stated that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that safety is a concern in all modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
The revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This wider defence situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, from transport usage to communication habits.
