An defence minister has stated that the Ministry of Defence is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and personnel have been told to refrain from discussing secret information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss classified material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader defence situation highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
