An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while staff have been advised to avoid discussing secret information in all vehicles.
Safety Advice for MoD Staff
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of car, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF pilots, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader security environment highlights the importance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of official operations, from vehicle usage to discussions practices.
