An defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recently aired interview on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while travelling in Chinese cars.
He stated that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that safety is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified level in any vehicle, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
The announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader security situation highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in every areas of government operations, including transport use to communication habits.
