UK Defence Secretary John Healey provided a briefing at No. 9 Downing Street today (9 April) on recent Russian military activity in the North Atlantic, highlighting ongoing threats to the UK and Allied undersea infrastructure.
Healey said, “In the last few weeks, while the eyes of many were trained on the Middle East, the UK – in partnership with Norway and other Allies – have responded to increased Russian activity in the Atlantic, north of the UK.”
He confirmed this included a Russian Akula-class submarine and two specialised GUGI vessels, which he described as “designed to survey underwater infrastructure during peacetime, and sabotage it in conflict.”
Healey added, “A Royal Navy warship and Royal Air Force P-8 aircraft, alongside Allies, ensured the Russian submarines were monitored 24/7. The Akula Submarine subsequently retreated home, and we continued to monitor the two GUGI submarines in and around wider UK waters.”
Key developments:
• Over 450 flight hours and several thousand nautical miles patrolled by a Royal Navy frigate.
• 500 personnel engaged in monitoring and deterrence activities.
• Launch of the Atlantic Bastion programme integrating autonomous technologies with naval assets.
• Additional £100 million investment in P-8 submarine-hunting aircraft.
Addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin, Healey said: “We see your activity over our cables and pipelines. Any attempt to damage them will not be tolerated, and will have serious consequences.” He emphasised the UK’s continued commitment to defend its undersea infrastructure and national security.
He added: “Putin’s covert operation failed because this Government is delivering our first duty, protecting Britain.”
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