Concerns over Chinese espionage at arms fair
Staff at British defence firms were instructed not to take phones to Wes Streeting’s first speech as Defence Secretary over concerns regarding potential Chinese spying, reports BritPanorama.
Streeting delivered his address at an arms fair attended by numerous Chinese companies, including an electronic warfare specialist known for its signals “cracking” services. Workers from Britain’s List X defence firms, which handle secret government contracts, were advised to leave phones, tablets, and other electronic devices outside the exhibition hall where the keynote was held.
Notably, government staff reportedly did not implement any special security precautions during the event. More than 20 Chinese firms had stands at the Farnborough International Air Show earlier this month, with China being the only nation to secure two “national pavilions” to showcase its technology.
Insider sources described the threat of espionage as an “open secret” among industry professionals. Streeting highlighted the evolving nature of global security, stating, “State-on-state competition has returned on a scale not seen for a generation.” The show featured innovative displays, including a new drone from defence giant BAE Systems designed to operate with the RAF’s elite pilots.
Despite the heightened concerns, the presence of Chinese firms raised questions regarding security protocol. For instance, LZ Tech, a Beijing-based company exhibiting anti-drone antennas, restricted media access as its staff attempted to evade publicity. While the company has not been accused of any misconduct, it has publicly touted its expertise in “cybersecurity, wireless communications, and information protection.”
Security discussions surrounding the event also highlighted a previous incident where a Chinese tracker was discovered attached to the Prime Minister’s car in 2022. Additionally, Chinese electric vehicles have been prohibited from parking near sensitive UK military sites, citing concerns they could act as surveillance devices. Regulations in China further mandate that all Chinese nationals assist in espionage if requested, intensifying scrutiny on their activities.
In light of these risks, defence expert Colonel Phil Ingram questioned the rationale behind allowing Chinese firms at the Farnborough event, suggesting they could gather valuable intelligence. The UK government, however, maintains its commitment to open trade, asserting that security measures are in place to protect national interests.
A government spokesperson reiterated the importance of safeguarding personnel, capabilities, and technology, declaring, “We take security seriously and regularly take steps to protect personnel, capabilities and technology in the interests of UK security.”
The ongoing dialogue regarding Chinese involvement in UK defence underscores the delicate balance between trade and national security in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
