Additional Coverage:
Russian “Spy Ship” Yantar Spotted Near British Waters, Lasers Allegedly Deployed
London, UK – A Russian vessel, identified as the Yantar, has once again raised concerns in the United Kingdom after it was observed near British waters, with allegations surfacing that it deployed lasers to interfere with Royal Air Force pilots. British Defense Secretary John Healey confirmed the presence of the alleged spy ship, stating that officials are taking Russia’s “deeply dangerous” maritime activities “extremely seriously.”
The Yantar, making its second known visit this year, was spotted north of Scotland and entered wider British waters in recent weeks. The British Defense Ministry confirmed on Wednesday that the Royal Navy dispatched a frigate and aircraft to closely monitor the vessel’s movements.
In a social media post, the Ministry of Defence stated, “During which the Yantar directed light lasers at our pilots.” Defense Secretary Healey further elaborated that the ship is “designed for gathering intelligence and mapping our undersea cables.”
Healey issued a stern warning to Russia and President Vladimir Putin, declaring, “My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you. We know what you’re doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.”
British defense officials have indicated that the Yantar is part of Russia’s Main Directorate for Deep Sea Research, which is designed to “undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.” Healey emphasized that the ship is part of a Russian fleet intended to “put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk.”
The Defense Secretary had previously issued a warning about the Yantar in January after it was detected in British territory. He reiterated Britain’s commitment to tracking and deterring the vessel whenever it enters wider British waters, working in conjunction with allies and NATO.
Healey confirmed that Britain possesses “military options ready” should the Yantar alter its course, though he refrained from disclosing specific tactics to avoid providing intelligence to President Putin. He also stated that Royal Navy engagement rules have been adjusted to more closely follow the Yantar when it is within British wider waters.
Addressing the use of lasers, Healey emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Anything that impedes, disrupts or puts at risk pilots in charge of British military planes is deeply dangerous.”