China–EU relations stories

Aug 10, 2026

U.K. Naval Drones Found Transmitting Data to China Through Camera Components

British officials discovered that camera components in Royal Navy Kraken K3 Scout drones transmitted signals and data to China, prompting a security investigation. The Ministry of Defence stated no sensitive data was compromised but faces scrutiny over supply-chain security for the £12 million drone program.

Aug 10, 2026·3 sources

Jun 11, 2026

China's Vice Premier to Join Macron-Led G7 Video Call on Trade Imbalances

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing will participate in a rare video conference hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron with G7 countries on Thursday to discuss global trade imbalances and low-priced Chinese exports, as Germany signals potential tougher trade measures.

Jun 11, 2026·3 sources

Top claims

▪The Royal Navy purchased 20 K3 Scout drones for £12.3 million under its Project Beehive surveillance and force protection programme.
▪The Royal Navy is investing in autonomous military technology as part of its "Hybrid Navy" strategy to integrate drones and uncrewed vessels.
▪The discovery of drone cameras transmitting data to China has highlighted the vulnerability of military supply chains to Chinese-sourced components.