A recently declassified photograph has emerged showing a British submarine confronting the Russian spy vessel Yantar. The incident follows Defense Secretary John Healey’s revelation in November that the Yantar had targeted RAF pilots with lasers and was lingering near UK waters. He condemned Russia’s actions as highly perilous, emphasizing the ship’s role in intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.
In a separate event in November 2024, a Royal Navy submarine and helicopter were seen confronting the Russian ship, as per an image released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). The RAF deployed maritime patrol aircraft, along with HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne, and RFA Proteus, to monitor 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, showcasing that the UK was covertly monitoring the vessel’s activities. Following this show of force, the Yantar left UK waters and headed towards the Mediterranean.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence reiterated the Defense Secretary’s strong message to President Putin, emphasizing that the UK is vigilant and prepared to take robust action to safeguard the nation. Concerns over Russian activities, including attempts to map undersea infrastructure, have led to the implementation of over 900 new sanctions and the enhancement of anti-submarine technology.
Through initiatives like the Atlantic Bastion program, the UK is spearheading the development of hybrid navies to protect critical undersea assets from emerging threats. Mr. Healey highlighted the Yantar as a symbol of the escalating Russian threat, underscoring the UK’s proactive stance in monitoring and responding to such provocations. The Russian embassy accused the UK government of fueling militaristic tensions at the time.
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