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A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified information in all cars.

Security Advice for Defence Personnel

In a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister addressed claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese vehicles.

The minister stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that safety is a concern in every contemporary cars.

We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.

But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.

After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”

Broader Defence Background

The announcement comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and bring chaos to public transit.

Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.

This broader security situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and caution in all areas of official operations, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.