Russian warships have been intercepted by the Royal Navy in the English Channel during a two-day operation carried out in coordination with NATO allies, UK defence officials said.
British patrol vessels and aircraft were deployed to track what officials described as elements of Russia’s “shadow fleet” as the ships transited waters close to the United Kingdom. The operation involved patrol ships HMS Mersey and HMS Severn, both based in Portsmouth, supported by a Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron.
The Royal Navy said the task group intercepted and shadowed the Russian corvette Boikiy and the accompanying oil tanker MT General Skobelev, which had earlier been tracked by allied forces after passing through the Bay of Biscay. The vessels were returning from a deployment in the Mediterranean and were sailing towards the North Sea.
As the Russian ships approached the Isle of Wight, the British vessels and helicopter used onboard sensors to monitor their movements and gather intelligence, which was later shared with relevant agencies. Once the ships entered the North Sea, responsibility for monitoring them was handed over to NATO allies.
Minister for the Armed Forces Al Carns said the operation sent a clear signal to Moscow. “With this operation, our sailors have once again sent a message to Vladimir Putin — we know exactly what his navy is doing,” he said. “Every time a Russian ship comes near the UK, the Navy is ready to track, deter and defend.”
Lieutenant Commander Dan Wardle, commanding officer of HMS Mersey, said the mission demonstrated the Royal Navy’s readiness to protect UK maritime interests. He noted that operating alongside HMS Severn and NATO partners allowed for the sharing of experience and best practice, underscoring the strength of allied cooperation.
Lieutenant Commander Ross Gallagher of 815 Naval Air Squadron said the activation again highlighted the high level of readiness and professionalism within the unit.
The interception is the latest in a series of encounters involving Russian vessels near UK and allied waters. British officials have said intensified monitoring of Russian naval and tanker movements is part of wider efforts by the UK and its allies to enforce sanctions and counter activities linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.