An defence official has stated that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, while personnel have been advised to avoid discussing classified matters in any cars.
Safety Advice for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss secret material while riding in China-made vehicles.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a issue in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The wider defence environment highlights the significance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of government activities, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.
