"UK Navy Surface Drone-Attached Cameras 'Transmitted Data to China'"

Controversy has arisen following claims that cameras installed on unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) operated by the British Royal Navy transmitted military-related data to China.

The British daily The Telegraph reported on the 9th, local time, that cameras mounted on the "K3 Scout" surface drones used by the British Royal Marines since March secretly transmitted military base-related data to a Chinese IP address.

The drones were supplied by Kraken Technology, a British defense startup, and some parts used in the drone cameras were of Chinese origin.

Kraken is reportedly supplied with the cameras from a third party that guaranteed security.

An investigation by relevant authorities into the drones revealed that the cameras transmitted data confirming their proper operation to a Chinese IP address.

Following security concerns raised over the cameras, the UK Ministry of Defense cut off all internet connections to the devices.

The Telegraph pointed out that members of the headquarters of the UK Special Boat Service (SBS) may have been exposed.

Concerns were also raised that the drones were located around areas where senior special forces officers discussed sensitive matters, and that the cameras continued to operate even after drone operations were suspended.

This security incident is analyzed to deal a significant blow to Project BeeHive, an initiative pursued by the British government aimed at modernizing combat capabilities by integrating traditional vessels and unmanned surface vehicles.

A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defense stated, "During a routine assessment of cyber vulnerabilities, we identified an issue affecting a sub-system of the Kraken USV," adding, "Following a thorough investigation, we found no evidence that Ministry of Defense data was transmitted externally."

Kraken also explained, "We are aware that a small number of parts supplied by a third party outside the UK were used in the cameras," while adding, "A comprehensive audit by Kraken and the Royal Navy confirmed that no sensitive information was shared outside of intended channels."

Despite the British government's explanation, the opposition Conservative Party urged the government to swiftly audit related equipment to check for hidden Chinese traces.

Previously, MI5, the UK's domestic and international intelligence agency, warned lawmakers in a security alert issued last year that Chinese intelligence agencies were using employment sites like LinkedIn to exert influence on Parliament and gather sensitive information.

The Telegraph also reported in July that the UK Special Boat Service (SBS) banned the use of Chinese electric vehicles at its headquarters due to security concerns.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.