An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is currently looking into the potential threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been advised to refrain from talking about secret matters in all vehicles.
Safety Advice for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret material while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret level in any kind of car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader security situation highlights the significance of strong measures and caution in all aspects of government activities, including transport use to discussions practices.
