UK reveals covert Russian submarine operation over seabed cables and pipelines
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The news: UK Defence Secretary John Healey revealed that the UK and its allies exposed a month-long covert Russian submarine operation in UK waters, during a Downing Street press conference on Thursday.
The context: Healey said the operation involved a Russian Akula-class attack submarine and two spy submarines from Russia’s GUGI deep-see research unit, which have since retreated.
He explained that the GUGI units are vessels directed by President Putin to conduct hybrid warfare activities against the UK and its Allies, specifically around Critical Undersea Infrastructure.
A Royal Navy warship and Royal Air Force P8 aircraft, alongside allies’ vessels, ensured the Russian submarines were monitored 24/7 and that the Russian ships were made aware that they were being monitored.
Healey explained that while the incursion occurred while “the eyes of many, were trained on the Middle East … we are tackling increasing threats to NATO in the High North, maintaining strong support for Ukraine and protecting our UK homeland.”
“To President Putin, I say this: we see you, we see your activity over our cables and pipelines. And you should know that any attempt to damage them will not be tolerated, and will have serious consequences”, Healey continued.
Healey said that there was no evidence that any cables or pipelines were damaged during the incursion but noted that threats on the UK’s undersea network have increased 30%, “so, we are stepping up our action to defend it.”
Healey announced an additional £100 million to be invested in the UK’s P8 submarine hunting aircraft.
The sources: John Healey statement, UK Government press release
