An defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently investigating the potential threats associated with Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to avoid talking about secret information in all cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about secret material while travelling in China-made vehicles.
He explained that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that security is a concern in all 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 whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any car, because of the increasing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Defence Background
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This broader defence environment underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, including vehicle usage to discussions practices.
