Cyber vulnerability sweep picks up Royal Navy drones sending data to China

Cameras on Royal Navy unmanned surface vessels were discovered transmitting data to a Chinese IP address during a routine cybersecurity assessment. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the issue, affecting a Kraken drone sub-system, stating it was an anomaly with no evidence of data access or compromise. The robots' cameras, sourced from a third-party supplier, sent basic heartbeat signals confirming their functionality.

While the MoD assured the issue posed no threat, the incident highlights concerns about supply chain security and Chinese cyber activity. The National Cyber Security Centre recently warned of covert networks built from compromised devices, and China's alleged spying on UK officials adds to the unease. Experts stress the necessity of thorough testing of all components in defense supply chains.