Royal Navy Monitors Russian Spy Ship Near UK Waters Amid Rising Tensions
In a strong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, British Defence Secretary John Healey addressed Parliament on Wednesday, confirming that the Royal Navy had been closely monitoring a Russian spy ship operating near the UK's coastal waters. The vessel, known as Yantar Amber, is reported to be involved in intelligence gathering and mapping key underwater infrastructure in the UK.
Healey emphasized that the UK is fully aware of Russian activities, stating, "We see you, we know what you're doing, and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country." The ship entered British waters on Monday, roughly 45 miles (72 kilometers) off the coast, prompting the Royal Navy to deploy two of its vessels to oversee its movements.
The defence minister explained that Yantar Amber was detected lingering around critical undersea infrastructure in the UK before it shifted course to the North Sea after passing through British waters. The French military has also been engaged in tracking the Russian vessel, although a French official noted that there has been no evidence of hostile intent from the Yantar.
Such encounters are not uncommon, with French officials remarking that surveillance of Russian vessels in the region is a standard practice whenever they pass through. Healey acknowledged that this was not the first time the Yantar had been spotted in British waters, highlighting its previous detection in November.
In recent months, the Royal Navy has intensified its efforts to monitor Russian naval activity. Last September, British warships reportedly shadowed four Russian vessels for a week in UK waters, and Royal Air Force jets were dispatched to intercept Russian aircraft operating in the vicinity.
These actions come at a time of heightened concerns regarding security in the Baltic Sea, especially following recent instances of suspected sabotage of undersea telecommunications and power cables. Experts and political leaders have raised alarm, suggesting that Russia may be engaging in a hybrid war against Western nations as tensions escalate over the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
With military vigilance heightened in the region, the UK's readiness to protect its underwater infrastructure is matched by ongoing NATO operations aimed at bolstering security amidst these evolving threats.
Related Sources: