An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been advised to refrain from talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to discuss classified information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He stated that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however noted that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
The wider security situation highlights the importance of robust measures and caution in every aspects of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
