The UK deployed military assets to deter Russian submarines suspected of targeting undersea cables and pipelines in British waters, Defense Secretary John Healey announced. The operation, conducted over a month, involved a Russian Akula-class attack submarine and two specialist submarines from Russia's Main Directorate for Deep Sea Research (GUGI). British warships, aircraft, and sonar buoys monitored the vessels 24/7, leading to their eventual retreat.
Healey emphasized that the UK and its allies, including Norway, detected and exposed the covert operation, warning Russia of serious consequences for any attempts to damage critical infrastructure. The operation coincided with heightened Russian activity in the North Atlantic, which British officials linked to distractions caused by the Middle East crisis.
The UK and Norway have strengthened their defense pact in response to a 30% increase in Russian naval presence in recent years. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated the government's commitment to defending national and economic security against Russian aggression.