The United Kingdom has accused Russia of conducting a covert submarine operation near key undersea cables and pipelines in waters north of the country, raising fresh security concerns.
According to the UK government, three Russian submarines were involved in the operation.Truth Live News International learnt from BBCc news that, Defence Secretary John Healey said a British warship and surveillance aircraft were deployed to monitor and deter the activity, adding that there was no evidence of damage to infrastructure in the Atlantic.
Healey stated that the UK had closely tracked the submarines and made clear that any attempt to interfere with critical infrastructure would not be tolerated. He said the vessels included an Akula-class submarine, believed to have acted as a diversion, alongside two specialist submarines operated by Russia’s deep-sea research unit.
The Royal Navy deployed HMS St Albans, supported by RFA Tidespring and Merlin helicopters, to shadow the submarines during the operation. Norway was among the allied nations that also assisted in monitoring the activity.
The UK relies heavily on undersea infrastructure for both energy and communications. Officials noted that more than 90 percent of the country’s internet traffic is transmitted through approximately 60 undersea cables, many of which come ashore along the east and southwest coasts of England. The country also depends on pipelines in the North Sea, particularly those linking it to Norwegian gas supplies.
Healey suggested the operation was part of a broader pattern of hostile behaviour, describing Russia as a primary threat to UK security and accusing Moscow of attempting to exploit global distractions to carry out covert missions.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the government remained committed to protecting national infrastructure and would continue to expose activities that could threaten economic stability and energy security.
However, some analysts and former military officials questioned the effectiveness of current responses. John Foreman, a retired Royal Navy officer, warned that Britain faces mounting challenges in maintaining maritime security, citing resource constraints and reduced naval capacity.
Security experts say such submarine missions can be used to map and potentially target critical infrastructure, although they may also fall within legal limits when conducted in international waters.
The developments come amid ongoing tensions linked to the war in Ukraine, with Western officials increasingly warning of hybrid tactics aimed at undermining infrastructure and strategic assets across Europe.
