A recently declassified photograph has emerged, revealing a British submarine engaged in a standoff with the Russian surveillance vessel, Yantar. The incident follows a public statement made by Defence Secretary John Healey in November, highlighting the Yantar’s aggressive behavior towards RAF pilots and its proximity to UK territorial waters. He condemned Russia’s actions, emphasizing the ship’s role in intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.
In a display of response, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) released an image showing a Royal Navy submarine and helicopter confronting the Russian vessel. Back in November 2024, RAF maritime patrol aircraft, along with HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne, and RFA Proteus, were mobilized to monitor the movements of the Yantar.
During a parliamentary session in January, Mr. Healey disclosed that he had authorized a Royal Navy submarine to surface near the Yantar as a deterrent measure, ensuring covert surveillance of its activities. The Defence Secretary stated that the Yantar eventually left UK waters and proceeded towards the Mediterranean.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence reiterated the government’s stance on Russian activities, emphasizing vigilance and readiness to protect national interests. The spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts to counter Russian threats, including the deployment of sanctions, surveillance of Russian vessels in UK waters, and the advancement of anti-submarine technology.
Mr. Healey emphasized the continuous monitoring of the Yantar, labeling it as a symbol of the increasing Russian threat. He underscored previous actions taken to track the vessel discreetly, including surfacing a nuclear-powered attack submarine near the Yantar. The Russian embassy in London criticized the UK government, accusing it of fostering anti-Russian sentiments and promoting militaristic rhetoric.