A recent declassified photograph reveals a British submarine confronting the Russian spy ship Yantar. This incident follows Defence Secretary John Healey’s disclosure in November that the Yantar had targeted RAF pilots with lasers and was spotted near UK waters. He condemned Russia’s actions, stating the ship was primarily used for intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.
In a display of military presence, a Royal Navy submarine and helicopter were captured engaging the Russian vessel in an image released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). During the previous encounter in November 2024, RAF maritime patrol aircraft, along with HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne, and RFA Proteus, monitored the Yantar’s movements closely.
Mr. Healey informed MPs in January that he had authorized a Royal Navy submarine to surface near the Yantar as a deterrent measure, ensuring covert monitoring of the ship’s activities. Following this show of strength, the Yantar left UK waters swiftly and proceeded towards the Mediterranean.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson emphasized the UK’s vigilance against Russian threats, especially regarding attempts to map undersea infrastructure. The UK has implemented over 900 new sanctions against Russian entities, increased surveillance of Russian vessels near UK waters, and expedited the development of advanced anti-submarine technology.
Through the innovative Atlantic Bastion program, the UK is spearheading the transition to hybrid navies, integrating autonomous vessels, AI-enabled sensors, warships, and aircraft to protect critical undersea assets against evolving challenges.
In a press conference last November, Mr. Healey highlighted the Yantar as a symbol of the escalating Russian threat, emphasizing the UK’s awareness of its activities. He underscored the previous interception of the Yantar and reiterated the government’s commitment to closely monitoring such incidents. The Russian embassy in London criticized the UK government, accusing it of fostering anti-Russian sentiments and stoking militaristic tensions.