An defence official has confirmed that the MoD is currently investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been instructed to avoid discussing secret information in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
He stated that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
The announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to disable buses and bring chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader security situation underscores the importance of strong measures and vigilance in every areas of official operations, from vehicle use to communication practices.
