The Defence Secretary, John Healey, has issued a stern warning to Vladimir Putin, revealing that a Russian spy vessel positioned near UK waters has targeted RAF pilots with laser beams.
Healey denounced Russia’s “extremely risky action” and emphasized that the UK has military strategies prepared in case the Yantar ship moves south. This marks the vessel’s second intrusion into British waters within a year, focusing on monitoring critical undersea cables.
During a press briefing at Downing Street, the Defence Secretary stated, “At this moment, a Russian spy ship, the Yantar, is situated at the edge of UK waters, north of Scotland, after entering broader UK waters in recent weeks. This vessel is specifically equipped for intelligence gathering and mapping underwater cables.”
He continued, “We’ve dispatched a Royal Navy frigate and RAF aircraft to monitor and trace the movements of this vessel, during which the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots. This Russian action poses significant danger, marking the second instance this year of the ship approaching UK waters.”
Healey’s caution follows a report from a key Commons committee highlighting the UK’s lack of a defense plan against military threats. He pledged to enhance Britain’s preparedness by identifying at least 13 locations for new arms production facilities.
The Yantar is part of a Russian fleet aimed at targeting crucial undersea cables linking the UK and Europe. These cables are essential for civilian and military communications, as well as the transmission of electricity and gas.
Regarding the ship’s capabilities, Healey mentioned, “It is designed to conduct surveillance during peacetime and sabotage in times of conflict.” When asked about the use of lasers by a Russian vessel against pilots for the first time, he confirmed, “This is the initial instance of such action from Yantar directed towards the British RAF.”
He emphasized, “We are taking this matter extremely seriously. I have revised the Navy’s rules of engagement to closely monitor the activities of the Yantar in our waters. We are prepared with military options.”
The Defence Secretary’s announcement coincided with his call for the UK to enhance its defenses in a new era characterized by increased military threats. He emphasized, “The evolving global landscape is less predictable and more perilous. Recent events, including conflicts in various regions and cyber threats, underscore the need for a robust defense strategy.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming Budget, Healey reassured that there would be no compromise on the strength of the UK’s armed forces.
