The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed that it actively monitors the presence of Chinese-manufactured technology within UK defence procurement and supply chains.
Labour MP Graeme Downie questioned the government on its assessment of both the prevalence of Chinese technology in UK defence systems and the potential security risks it poses. In response, Minister of State for Defence Maria Eagle emphasised that while the MoD welcomes foreign trade, strict legal and regulatory requirements must be met.
“The Ministry of Defence welcomes foreign trade where it allows us to provide our Armed Forces with the equipment they require, meets our stringent legal and regulatory requirements, and does not compromise our national security,” Eagle stated.
She also confirmed that transactions with potential national security concerns—regardless of the country of origin—are continuously monitored, with appropriate mitigations applied when necessary. “Furthermore, the MoD regularly reviews its critical supply chains to identify and mitigate risks to defence capability,” she added.
The issue of Chinese technology in Western defence supply chains has become a growing concern in recent years, with fears that components from Chinese firms could pose cybersecurity risks or create vulnerabilities in military hardware. While the UK has taken steps to limit reliance on certain foreign technologies—most notably banning Huawei from its 5G infrastructure—there remains scrutiny over potential exposure in critical defence sectors.
Eagle’s response indicates that the UK government is maintaining a cautious approach, balancing the need for international trade with strict oversight of national security risks.
Given the current and rapidly deteriorating relationship. They should be treating US tech in the same way.
Exactly. Plus American software/media is like multiple viruses that underpin (and therefore threaten) the entire economy, a strategic weakness.
Precisely…id trust the Chinese more than the Americans any day…