A defense official has revealed that the Ministry of Defence is actively investigating the possible threats posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been instructed to avoid talking about classified information in any vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
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 Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have conversations at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Defence Background
The announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from transport use to communication habits.
