A recent declassified photograph depicts a British submarine encountering the Russian spy vessel Yantar. This interaction follows Defense Secretary John Healey’s disclosure in November that the Yantar had targeted RAF pilots with lasers while operating near UK waters. He condemned Russia’s actions, highlighting the Yantar’s role in intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) released an image showing a Royal Navy submarine and helicopter confronting the Russian ship. In a separate incident in November 2024, RAF maritime patrol aircraft, along with HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne, and RFA Proteus, monitored the Yantar’s movements closely.
During a parliamentary session in January, Mr. Healey mentioned authorizing a Royal Navy submarine to surface near the Yantar as a deterrent measure. This display of strength aimed to signal that the UK was discreetly monitoring the Yantar’s activities. Subsequently, the Yantar left UK waters and proceeded to the Mediterranean.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson reiterated the government’s firm stance towards Russia, emphasizing vigilance and readiness to take decisive actions to safeguard national security. Measures include imposing sanctions, monitoring Russian vessels in UK waters, and advancing anti-submarine technology. The Atlantic Bastion program underscores the UK’s commitment to enhancing naval capabilities to protect critical undersea infrastructure.
In November, Mr. Healey underscored the Yantar’s presence as a sign of the growing Russian threat. He emphasized the UK’s previous monitoring efforts and actions taken against the Yantar, including surfacing a nuclear-powered attack submarine in close proximity. The Russian embassy criticized the UK government for alleged Russophobia and militaristic rhetoric.
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