An defence minister has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret level in any car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The announcement follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
The wider defence environment highlights the importance of strong measures and caution in every areas of official activities, including transport use to discussions habits.
