An defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively examining the potential threats associated with Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about secret material while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister explained that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
This announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This wider defence situation highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of official operations, from transport usage to communication practices.
