A defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been instructed to refrain from talking about secret information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recently aired interview on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese cars.
He said that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD 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 people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those secret talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned 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 precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
The revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader security environment underscores the significance of strong protocols and caution in every areas of official operations, including vehicle usage to communication habits.
