Defence Secretary John Healey has issued a stern warning to Vladimir Putin following reports that a Russian spy vessel positioned near UK waters targeted RAF pilots with lasers.
Healey criticized Russia’s “highly risky behavior” and confirmed that the UK has military strategies prepared in case the Yantar ship moves southward. This marks the second instance in the past year that the ship has entered British waters to surveil crucial undersea cables.
During a press briefing at Downing Street, Healey disclosed, “At this moment, the Yantar, a Russian spy ship, is positioned on the northern fringes of UK waters, having recently entered broader UK maritime territory. The Yantar specializes in intelligence gathering and mapping underwater cables.”
“We have deployed a Royal Navy frigate and RAF aircraft to monitor and track the vessel’s activities. On this mission, the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots. This aggressive action by Russia is concerning, especially considering this ship’s repeated incursions into UK waters,” he added.
He emphasized, “To Russia and Putin, I convey this message – we are vigilant, aware of your actions, and prepared should the Yantar move southward in the coming days.”
Healey’s warning comes in the wake of a parliamentary committee’s caution that the UK lacks a comprehensive defense plan against military threats. He pledged to enhance the nation’s preparedness by identifying at least 13 locations for new weapons manufacturing facilities.
The Yantar is part of a Russian fleet tasked with monitoring critical undersea cables linking the UK and Europe. These cables support essential civilian and military communication networks, as well as power and gas supplies.
Describing the ship’s capabilities, Healey stated, “The Yantar is equipped for surveillance during peacetime and potential sabotage during conflicts.” When asked about the use of lasers against pilots, he noted, “This is the first instance of such action by the Yantar against British RAF personnel. We take this matter very seriously and have adjusted Navy protocols to closely monitor the vessel’s movements within UK waters.”
Highlighting the need for enhanced defense measures in the current landscape, Healey remarked, “We are facing a new era of formidable threats. Our world is evolving, becoming less predictable and more perilous. Recent events, including conflicts in various regions and escalating cyber threats, underscore the urgency for a robust defense strategy.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming budget announcement, Healey assured that there will be no compromise on the strength of the UK’s armed forces, emphasizing the country’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities.