In brief
The UK has reported that three Russian submarines conducted covert operations near its undersea cables and pipelines, prompting a response from British naval forces. Defence Secretary John Healey addressed President Putin directly, emphasizing that Russia's actions would not be tolerated. While the Russian embassy denied any wrongdoing, the UK remains vigilant about the substantial threats posed to its critical infrastructure by such surveillance activities.
Three Russian submarines conducted a covert operation over cables and pipelines in waters north of the UK, Defence Secretary John Healey said.
A British warship and aircraft were deployed to deter the malign activity by Moscow, asserting that there was no evidence of any damage to UK infrastructure in the Atlantic.
Addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin directly, Healey declared: We see you over our cables and our pipelines, and any attempt to damage them will not be tolerated and will have serious consequences.
The Russian embassy in London has denied Healey's claims, asserting through state news agency Tass that the country is not threatening underwater infrastructure that is critical to the UK.
The UK is heavily reliant on undersea cables and pipelines, with approximately 60 cables connecting it to other nations, particularly in the North Atlantic, carrying over 90% of the nation's internet traffic.
Healey outlined that the operation involved an Akula class submarine serving as a distraction while two GUGI spy submarines monitored the cables. He noted that the attack submarine soon retreated to Russia after being observed, while the GUGI submarines continued their activity.
To monitor these operations, the Royal Navy deployed frigate HMS St Albans and other resources, demonstrating collaboration with other countries, notably Norway.
Healy added, Our armed forces left [Russia] in no doubt that they were being monitored, and that their attempted covert operation had been exposed. The situation raises concerns about the potential for hybrid warfare aimed at disrupting UK's critical infrastructure.
