A defense official has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the potential threats posed by Chinese-made cars, while staff have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in all vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a concern in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any car, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This broader defence environment underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of government activities, including vehicle use to communication habits.
