Bundeswehr bans Chinese drones, cars due to espionage risks

A spokesman for the German Ministry of Defense told Der Spiegel on Tuesday (November 11) that the Bundeswehr "will no longer use any Chinese drones in the future, and existing systems will be replaced by German or European products."

"Der Spiegel" also revealed that the German Bundeswehr also implemented extensive restrictions on Chinese cars, prohibiting them from entering military camps and other military facilities.

According to reports, in recent weeks, the Bundeswehr has ordered to stop using previously purchased Chinese commercial drones, including products from DJI. The decision was made because authorities had significant safety concerns.

The German military is worried that these small drones may transmit military exercise data, images of military camps and training grounds, and even information about German weapons systems to Chinese intelligence agencies.

According to Der Spiegel, many of the Chinese small drones purchased by the Bundeswehr in the past few years were directly purchased by local commanders through simplified procedures. Currently, these devices are being decommissioned as quickly as possible.

In addition to Chinese drones, the Bundeswehr also plans to exclude Chinese cars from military installations.

According to reports, a specific list is currently circulating within the German military, involving multiple models from Chinese automakers such as BYD, Geely, and NIO. These vehicles will no longer be allowed to enter military installations designated as safe areas.

German soldiers who own related vehicles must park their cars outside the camp and then enter the military camp on foot.

The German military is concerned that sensors and cameras equipped in Chinese cars may record sensitive information and transmit relevant data to Chinese security agencies.