An defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible threats associated with Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but noted that security is a concern in every modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Context
The revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This wider security environment underscores the significance of robust protocols and caution in all aspects of official activities, including transport use to discussions habits.
