The UK government has issued a stern warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin following the detection of a Russian intelligence-gathering vessel in British waters this week.
Defense Secretary John Healey told Parliament that the Russian ship Yantar was spotted approximately 45 miles off the British coast in the English Channel on Monday. The vessel, operated by Russia's Ministry of Defense, is believed to be involved in mapping critical underwater infrastructure and gathering intelligence.
"We see you, we know what you're doing and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country," Healey declared in a direct message to Putin.
The Royal Navy deployed two warships - HMS Somerset and HMS Tyne - to closely monitor Yantar's movements. Healey revealed he had modified the Royal Navy's rules of engagement to allow British ships to track the Russian vessel more effectively.
This marks the second time in recent months that Yantar has entered UK waters. In November, the ship was detected "loitering" near critical undersea infrastructure, prompting an unusual counter-measure where a Royal Navy submarine was authorized to surface nearby as a deterrent.
The Yantar is equipped with sophisticated surveillance equipment and submersible drones capable of reaching the ocean floor. Western nations suspect it is part of Russia's efforts to map undersea cables that carry over 95% of internet traffic and are crucial for energy supply.
The incident comes amid growing concerns about threats to critical infrastructure in European waters. In December, an undersea cable between Estonia and Finland was damaged, with Finnish authorities investigating possible Russian involvement.
In response to these challenges, the UK is strengthening its defensive capabilities alongside NATO allies. The Royal Air Force will provide surveillance aircraft to join NATO's mission protecting critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea.
Former Defense Secretary Grant Shapps has called for stronger measures, suggesting that ships suspected of spying in UK waters should be impounded for investigation.
The Yantar has since moved into the North Sea after complying with international navigation rules during its passage through British waters.