IDF still uses Chinese-made vehicles at Kirya despite security concerns

Despite a broader shift away from Chinese vehicles due to security concerns, the IDF's Kirya headquarters in Tel Aviv continues to use Chinese-made electric MG ZS vehicles for patrols as of mid-August. These vehicles, manufactured by state-owned SAIC Motor Corp., were purchased approximately five years ago and remain in use at the base, which houses sensitive military and defense institutions. This contrasts with the IDF's previous actions, such as disconnecting communications equipment in leased Chery Tiggo 8 vehicles and eventually replacing them with Mitsubishi Outlanders, after realizing security implications. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit provided a general statement regarding adherence to security regulations without directly addressing the Kirya's use of Chinese vehicles. This situation echoes recent concerns in the UK, where Chinese-made components in British Royal Navy unmanned vessels were found to transmit data to an IP address in China, raising fears of sensitive information leakage.