A defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss secret material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However 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 technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, due to the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, the minister replied: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Defence Background
This revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This broader security situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of official operations, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.
