An defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats posed by Chinese vehicles, and staff have been instructed to avoid talking about classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to talk about classified material while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that safety is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing threats of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
This announcement follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This wider security environment underscores the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in every aspects of government operations, from transport usage to discussions practices.
