An defence minister has stated that the Ministry of Defence is currently investigating the possible threats posed by Chinese vehicles, while staff have been told to avoid talking about classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He said that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that security is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
The revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader defence environment highlights the significance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of official activities, including transport use to communication habits.
