The United Kingdom has confirmed that it is tracking the Russian spy vessel Yantar, which is near its waters. Defense Secretary John Healey warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that the UK is prepared to counter any potential threat. The ship, which is part of Moscow’s Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, has been deployed twice to UK waters. British officials said the Y, and it poses a potential threat to national security. Healey emphasized that the UK is determined to track, deter, and respond to any actions the Yantar may take, in coordination with allies.
During a recent press conference, Healey stated that the Yantar is designed for gathering intelligence and mapping undersea cables. He highlighted that the UK has deployed a Royal Navy frigate and RAF planes to monitor the vessel’s movements, including instances where the Yantar directed lasers at British pilots. The defense secretary’s warning to Putin is part of a broader strategy to assert the UK’s readiness to defend its interests in the region.
Additionally, the UK has announced plans to establish several factories for the production of munitions and military explosives. The first such factory is set to break ground next year, which underscores the nation’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities in the wake of rising tensions with Russia. This move aligns with NATO’s efforts to bolster collective security measures against potential threats.
Healey’s warning follows a report by the Commons Defence Committee, which criticized the UK for lacking a comprehensive plan to defend the homeland and overseas territories. The committee urged the government to launch a coordinated effort to communicate the level of threat faced by the nation. This development highlights the growing concerns within the UK government regarding the security risks posed by Russia’s military activities.
The Yantar is not just part of a naval operation but also a critical component of Moscow’s Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, which is primarily involved in surveillance during peacetime and sabotage during conflicts. Healey emphasized that the UK’s response to the Yantar’s presence is not only a defensive measure but also a demonstration of its resolve to protect its national interests in the face of perceived threats.