Defence Secretary John Healey has issued a stern warning to Vladimir Putin after disclosing that a Russian spy vessel, positioned near the UK waters, targeted RAF pilots with lasers.
Healey criticized Russia’s “highly risky move” and affirmed that the UK possesses military strategies in place should the Yantar ship proceed southward. This marks the second instance of the ship entering British waters within the past year to conduct surveillance on crucial underwater communication cables.
During a press briefing at Downing Street, the Defence Secretary stated, “Currently, the Russian spy ship, Yantar, is positioned at the northern boundary of UK waters, having encroached upon the UK maritime territory in recent weeks. The Yantar is specifically designed for intelligence gathering and mapping underwater cables.”
He further added, “In response, we have deployed a Royal Navy frigate and RAF aircraft to surveil and track the movements of this vessel. Regrettably, the Yantar aimed lasers at our pilots, posing a significant hazard. If the Yantar proceeds south this week, we are prepared.”
This caution follows a report from a key Commons committee highlighting the UK’s lack of a defense plan against military aggression. Healey pledged to enhance Britain’s readiness by identifying at least 13 locations for new arms manufacturing facilities.
The Yantar is part of a Russian fleet assigned to monitor critical undersea cables linking the UK and Europe, carrying essential civilian and military communications, as well as power and gas supplies.
Describing the ship’s capabilities, Healey mentioned, “The vessel is equipped to conduct surveillance during peacetime and engage in sabotage during conflicts.” Responding to queries on the use of lasers by a Russian vessel against pilots, he stated, “This incident marks the first occurrence of such an action by the Yantar against the British RAF.”
Emphasizing the need for heightened defenses in a shifting landscape of global threats, the Defence Secretary remarked, “We are witnessing a new era of uncertainties and dangers. Recent events, including conflicts in various regions and escalating hostilities, underscore the evolving threat landscape.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming Budget discussions, Healey assured that there would be no regression in the strength of the UK’s armed forces, affirming a commitment to fortify the country’s defense capabilities.