A defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and staff have been told to avoid discussing classified information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified information while riding in China-made vehicles.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a concern in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any car, due to the growing threats of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Defence Context
This revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This broader security situation underscores the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in every areas of official operations, including transport use to discussions habits.
