An defence minister has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, while personnel have been advised to refrain from talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified information while riding in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in every contemporary vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in every single vehicle, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using every cars from China, the minister replied: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This broader security environment underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
