A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks associated with Chinese vehicles, and staff have been told to avoid talking about secret information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He stated that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of car, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in every single vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
This revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader security environment highlights the significance of strong protocols and caution in every aspects of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
