An defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to avoid discussing classified matters in all cars.
Safety Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
This wider security environment underscores the significance of robust measures and caution in all areas of government operations, from transport use to discussions practices.
