A Royal Navy submarine surfaced just yards from a Russian spy ship in a dramatic show of force to protect British waters. The nuclear-powered HMS Astute emerged from the depths after the Kremlin 'shadow fleet' vessel was caught close to UK undersea cables.
Defence Secretary John Healey revealed the incident for the first time today and, in remarks directed at Vladimir Putin, warned 'we see you, we know what you are doing'. He told the House of Commons that the Yantar - a purpose-built spy vessel - was being used to gather intelligence and study this country's underwater communications infrastructure.
The standoff between the 'hunter killer' submarine and the Russian surveillance ship came as Donald Trump told Vladimir Putin to 'stop this ridiculous war' in Ukraine, as well as threatening him with sanctions and tariffs.
Mr Healey said: 'Today, I want to confirm I authorised a Royal Navy submarine – strictly as a deterrent measure – to surface close to Yantar to make clear we had been covertly monitoring its every move. As colleagues will understand, I won't comment further for reasons of operational security. But I want to thank all the personnel involved for the dedication and professionalism. I also want President Putin to hear this message: we see you, we know what you are doing, and we will not shy away from robust action.'
The incident involving HMS Astute and the Yantar happened in November, but only emerged for the first time today. It is understood to have occurred in the vicinity of Widemouth Bay on the north Cornish coastline. An RAF maritime patrol aircraft, alongside HMS Cattistock, HMS Tyne and RFA Proteus, shadowed her every move.
The Yantar's crew eventually complied with a 'polite' warning issued by the submarine's crew - which included the phrase 'good morning' - and headed towards the Mediterranean. The Mail understands a second Royal Navy submarine may have then secretly followed the Yantar on that journey south.
