Defence Secretary John Healey has issued a stern warning to Vladimir Putin after revealing that a Russian spy vessel positioned at the edge of UK waters targeted RAF pilots with laser lights.
Healey criticized Russia’s “extremely hazardous action” and emphasized that the UK is prepared with military strategies in case the Yantar ship moves south. This marks the second occasion the ship has intruded into British waters within the past year to conduct surveillance on crucial undersea cables.
Speaking at a press conference in Downing Street, Healey stated, “Currently, a Russian spy ship, the Yantar, is situated on the northern edge of UK waters, having entered the broader UK waters in recent weeks. This vessel is specifically designed for intelligence gathering and mapping underwater cables.”
“We have deployed a Royal Navy frigate and RAF aircraft to monitor and track the movements of this vessel. During this surveillance, the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots. Such Russian actions are highly perilous, and this is the second instance this year of the ship venturing into UK waters.”
Healey’s message to Russia and Putin is clear: “We are aware of your actions, and if the Yantar ventures south this week, we are prepared.”
The warning comes following a caution from a prominent Commons committee that the UK lacks a defense plan against potential military aggression. Healey pledged to enhance Britain’s preparedness, identifying at least 13 locations for new arms manufacturing facilities.
The Yantar is a part of a Russian fleet specifically targeting critical undersea cables connecting the UK and Europe. These submarine cables carry essential civilian and military communications, as well as power and gas supplies.
Healey mentioned that the ship possesses capabilities for surveillance during peace and sabotage during conflict situations. When asked about the laser incident involving a Russian vessel targeting British RAF pilots for the first time, Healey emphasized, “This is the initial occurrence of such action by Yantar against the British RAF.”
“We are taking this matter very seriously. I have revised the Navy’s rules of engagement to enable closer monitoring of Yantar’s activities in our waters. We have military responses prepared.”
The Defence Secretary highlighted the need for the UK to bolster its defenses in a new era characterized by significant threats. He emphasized, “Our world is evolving, becoming less predictable and more dangerous. Recent events, from conflicts in various regions to cyberattacks, underscore the urgency for a robust defense strategy.”
Ahead of the upcoming Budget, Healey assured that there would be no regression in the strengthening of the UK’s armed forces.