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An defense official has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles, while staff have been advised to avoid talking about secret matters in all vehicles.

Security Guidance for Defence Personnel

During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to discuss secret information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.

The minister said that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.

Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.

However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.

When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”

Broader Security Context

This revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring chaos to transport systems.

Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.

This broader security situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and caution in all areas of official activities, including vehicle use to communication practices.