Russian Submarines Leave UK Waters After Being Tracked by British Military

The British military tracked Russian submarines for over a month. This operation involved hundreds of personnel and multiple naval assets, showing a significant response to Russian activity.
By Newsroom | National Security, Military |

Covert Operation Near UK Waters Foiled

The British military has disclosed a Russian submarine operation conducted in and around UK waters, leading to the vessels' retreat. The operation, involving an Akula-class nuclear-powered submarine and two specialist spy submarines from Russia's Main Directorate of Deep Sea Research (GUGI), was designed to survey critical underwater infrastructure.

Attack submarine sent by Putin towards UK as 'decoy' in Russian spy operation targeting underwater cables - 1

The operation spanned over a month and involved intense monitoring by UK forces, including a Type 23 frigate, RFA Tidespring, and Merlin helicopters. This effort, supported by the Norwegian military, engaged approximately 500 UK military personnel and considerable flight time and naval coverage across several thousand nautical miles. The Russian vessels ultimately departed after being tracked.

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Diversionary Tactic Suspected

Defense Secretary John Healey indicated that the deployment of the attack submarine served as a 'decoy' or diversionary tactic. This was purportedly to draw attention away from the surveillance activities of the two spy submarines targeting undersea cables and pipelines.

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Healey suggested that Russia may have hoped the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, specifically the US-Israel attack on Iran, would further mask their underwater activities. Despite the international focus on the Middle East, Healey emphasized that Russia remains the primary threat to the UK and NATO allies.

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No Damage Reported, Vigilance Maintained

While Healey stated there was no evidence of damage to any cables or pipelines, the UK, in conjunction with allies, will continue efforts to verify their integrity. The British military has kept naval vessels and aircraft on standby, prepared to respond should Russian vessels re-enter the area.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns about Russian espionage and potential sabotage of vital undersea infrastructure. British officials have stressed the importance of keeping such Russian activities in the international spotlight, even amidst other global conflicts.

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Background

Concerns regarding Russian interest in undersea infrastructure are not new. In December 2025, the head of the UK Navy, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, had expressed particular worry about activities occurring "under the waves," distinguishing them from more visible Russian maritime presence. A report from Parliament's Defence Committee also highlighted a perceived lack of a comprehensive UK plan for homeland and overseas territory defense.

The UK has previously engaged in efforts to monitor Russian maritime activities, including operations against vessels suspected of violating sanctions. The recent operation highlights a coordinated effort between the UK and Norway to patrol the North Atlantic and deter such activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Russian submarines leave UK waters?
Russian submarines, including spy vessels, were tracked by the British military for over a month and eventually retreated from the area.
Q: What was the purpose of the Russian submarine operation?
The operation, involving an Akula-class submarine and two spy submarines, was likely intended to survey critical underwater infrastructure like cables and pipelines.
Q: How did the UK military respond to the Russian submarines?
The UK military used frigates, support ships, and helicopters, with support from Norway, to monitor the Russian vessels. Around 500 personnel were involved in the effort.
Q: Was any damage caused by the Russian submarines?
The Defense Secretary stated there was no evidence of damage to any cables or pipelines, but the UK and allies are continuing to verify their integrity.
Q: Is this a new concern about Russian activity?
No, concerns about Russian interest in undersea infrastructure have been raised before, with UK Navy leadership expressing worries about 'under the waves' activities in December 2025.