A recently declassified photo reveals a British submarine encountering the Russian spy vessel, Yantar. This event follows Defense Secretary John Healey’s disclosure in November of the Yantar’s use of lasers against RAF pilots while operating near UK waters. He condemned Russia’s actions, highlighting the ship’s role in intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.
The Ministry of Defence released an image depicting a Royal Navy submarine and helicopter confronting the Russian ship. In a separate incident in November 2024, RAF maritime patrol aircraft, along with HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne, and RFA Proteus, were deployed to monitor the Yantar.
During a parliamentary address in January, Mr. Healey mentioned authorizing a Royal Navy submarine to surface near the Yantar as a deterrent measure, emphasizing the covert monitoring of the vessel’s movements. Following this, the Yantar left UK waters and sailed to the Mediterranean.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence reiterated the UK’s vigilance against Russia, emphasizing the monitoring and response to threats posed by activities like mapping undersea cables. The UK has implemented sanctions, increased surveillance of Russian vessels near UK waters, and expedited the development of advanced anti-submarine technology.
Mr. Healey, in a press conference, underscored the Yantar as a symbol of the growing Russian threat, stating the government’s awareness of its activities and readiness to act. He highlighted previous measures taken, including the surfacing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine close to the Yantar. The Russian embassy in London criticized the UK government, labeling its actions as “Russophobic” and stoking militaristic tensions.