An defense minister has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This wider security environment highlights the importance of robust measures and caution in all aspects of official operations, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.
