EU nation bans Chinese cars from military sites

The Polish armed forces has claimed the vehicles could pose a security risk and be used for spying

The Polish Army on Tuesday imposed a ban on Chinese-made vehicles, barring them from entering high-security installations. The modern, advanced cars are capable of “uncontrolled acquisition and use of data” and could be used for espionage purposes, it argues.

The army said the measure pertains only to high-security sites, while access to publicly accessible military locations, such as hospitals, garrison clubs, or libraries, will not be restricted.

The cars may still be allowed at the off-limits sites if certain functions are disabled and they comply with other safeguards implemented by the specific facility, the army explained.

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The restriction is reminiscent of moves taken by several nations in recent years over fears that sophisticated Chinese-made vehicles could harvest data through their sensors and cameras, funneling it to their manufacturers. The latter, in turn, could share it with the Chinese government, some have argued.

No solid proof of malicious activities, however, has been presented by any of the nations that have clamped down on Chinese cars. Beijing has repeatedly denied allegations the automobiles or their components could be used for spying, dismissing such claims as “rumors” and “disinformation.” 

Late last year, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly ordered the removal of some 700 Chinese vehicles, mainly Chery Tiggo 8 Pro plug-in hybrids, which were being used by military officers.  

The IDF reportedly gave in to concerns the cars could be sending data to China, including audio and video. Apart from recalling state-issued vehicles, the force also reportedly implemented a blanket ban, barring them from entering military installations.