An defence official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is currently investigating the potential threats posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to avoid talking about secret matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to talk about classified material while travelling in China-made cars.
He stated that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified level in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
This revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
The wider defence situation highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, from transport usage to communication practices.
