A defense official has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, while personnel have been instructed to avoid talking about secret information in all vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a issue in every contemporary vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
The revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This wider security situation highlights the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, from vehicle use to communication practices.
