London (Agencies): The UK’s surveillance vessel, RFA Proteus, has engaged with the Russian Navy’s spy ship, Yantar, in the Atlantic Ocean as tensions rise over the security of European offshore infrastructure. The encounter highlights the growing concerns about Russian activities targeting vital undersea communications.

The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) emphasized that the nation is playing a leading role in countering the increasing Russian threat to offshore infrastructure in European seas. Defence Secretary John Healey noted, “This is a Russian spy ship used for gathering intelligence and mapping the UK’s critical underwater infrastructure.”

RFA Proteus, which has been tracking the Yantar, is part of the UK’s expanded efforts to safeguard undersea cables and other maritime assets. The Royal Navy has also ramped up surveillance operations, including a notable incident in November when a Royal Navy attack submarine surfaced near Yantar, sending a strong message about the UK’s commitment to protecting its waters.

The Yantar, an auxiliary vessel of the Russian Navy, has been suspected of engaging in reconnaissance activities, particularly around undersea cables in the Irish Sea. While there is no evidence suggesting interference with installations, the close monitoring by the Royal Navy signifies the UK’s heightened vigilance to ensure the security of its critical infrastructure.

The confrontation in the Atlantic is part of broader geopolitical tensions surrounding undersea data cables, which are crucial for global communications. The UK’s proactive defense strategy, including the deployment of RFA Proteus and the surfacing of a Royal Navy submarine, underscores the importance of safeguarding these vital maritime resources.

The situation in the Atlantic continues to evolve, with the UK maintaining its readiness to confront any threats to its national security and undersea infrastructure.

By Admin

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