Royal Navy tracks Russian spy ship in English Channel

A Russian spy ship is being tracked by the Royal Navy after sailing through the English Channel, John Healey revealed yesterday, issuing a stark warning to Vladimir Putin that the government is watching Russian activity in UK waters.

- MILLIE COOKE

“We see you”, the defence secretary warned, promising robust action to protect Britain.

The ship, Yantar, is currently in the North Sea having passed through British waters. Mr Healey said this is the second time the Russian spy vessel had entered UK waters in recent months, noting the ship was also closely watched in November.

“Let me be clear, this is a Russian spy ship used for gathering intelligence and mapping the UK’s critical underwater infrastructure,” the defence secretary warned.

In November, the government authorised a Royal Navy submarine to surface close to Yantar to “make clear that we had been covertly monitoring its every move”, Mr Healey said.

Addressing the House of Commons, he said: “Yantar entered the UK exclusive economic zone about 45 miles off the British coast on Monday. For the last two days, the Royal Navy has deployed HMS Somerset and HMS Tyne to monitor the vessel every minute through our waters.

“I changed the Royal Navy’s rules of engagement so that our warships can get closer and better track the Yantar. So far, the ship has complied with international rules of navigation.”

Referring to the incident in November, Mr Healey said: “It was detected loitering over UK critical undersea infrastructure. To deter any potential threat, I took measured steps then as part of a clear direct response to the Russian vessel. RAF maritime patrol aircraft alongside HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne and RFA