A defence official has stated that the Ministry of Defence is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been advised to refrain from talking about classified matters in all cars.
Safety Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about classified information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those secret talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider defence situation highlights the importance of robust measures and caution in all areas of official activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
