19:28 18-02-2026

Poland restricts Chinese vehicles at military facilities for security

Poland has implemented new security measures at military facilities, marking the first time it has restricted access for vehicles of Chinese manufacture. According to the army, modern electronic components—including sensors, cameras, and communication modules—could potentially collect and transmit sensitive information, thereby posing a threat to strategic sites.

The ban isn't absolute: vehicles will still be permitted entry if certain functions are disabled and additional security requirements are met. These restrictions do not apply to civilian facilities such as military hospitals, libraries, or prosecutor's offices.

Simultaneously, connecting official phones to the multimedia systems of Chinese-made cars has been prohibited to minimize the risk of data interception. Military officials emphasize that this decision is precautionary and aligns with practices observed in several NATO countries, which are increasingly tightening controls on foreign-origin technology.

The growing technological sophistication of vehicles makes them potential sources of intelligence data—a key factor driving these stricter regulations. Against the backdrop of global competition in digital security, states are more frequently viewing transportation as an element of cyber risk.

Poland has become one of the first EU countries to formalize such restrictions, and it is anticipated that other allies may follow suit, given the world market's growing reliance on Chinese electronics and software.