An defence official has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been advised to avoid discussing classified matters in any cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while travelling in China-made cars.
He said that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that security is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any car, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to only have those secret talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
The announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader defence situation highlights the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in all areas of official operations, including transport use to communication practices.
