An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats associated with Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in China-made cars.
He stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a concern in all modern vehicles.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any car, due to the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
The announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The wider security situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in every areas of official activities, from vehicle use to communication practices.
