A recently declassified photograph reveals a British submarine confronting the Russian spy ship Yantar, following reports of the Yantar shining lasers at RAF pilots near UK waters. The Defence Secretary condemned Russia’s actions, stating that the vessel was engaged in intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.
In a separate incident in November 2024, a Royal Navy submarine and helicopter were pictured confronting the Russian ship, with RAF maritime patrol aircraft and other vessels monitoring the Yantar’s movements. The Defence Secretary authorized the surfacing of a Royal Navy submarine near the Yantar as a deterrent measure to demonstrate covert monitoring.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the Yantar eventually left UK waters and sailed to the Mediterranean. The Defence Secretary emphasized to MPs the UK’s vigilance against Russian activities, stating that robust actions would be taken to protect the country.
The Ministry of Defence spokesperson reiterated the UK’s awareness of the Russian threat, particularly in mapping undersea infrastructure. Measures include imposing sanctions, monitoring Russian vessels in UK waters, and advancing anti-submarine technology. The Atlantic Bastion program aims to enhance naval capabilities to safeguard critical undersea infrastructure.
The Defence Secretary highlighted the Yantar as a symbol of the increasing Russian threat, emphasizing the UK’s readiness to respond effectively. The Russian embassy accused the UK government of fostering anti-Russian sentiment and militaristic hysteria at the time.