An defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the potential threats associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while staff have been instructed to avoid discussing secret matters in all cars.
Safety Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, but emphasised that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles 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 not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those secret talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all cars from China, the minister replied: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Background
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The wider defence situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in every areas of government operations, from transport use to discussions habits.
