London accuses Russia of covert submarine ops in British waters

London: Britain on Thursday accused Russia of conducting covert attack submarine operations in its waters, which were successfully repelled by its armed forces.

The defence ministry said British aircraft and warships identified a Russian attack submarine in the High North weeks ago and tracked it around the clock. The operation was part of a “Russian bluff”, while other vessels conducted “nefarious activity” near critical underwater infrastructure.

“I am determined to protect the British people from paying the price for [Russian President] Putin’s aggression in their household bills,” said PM Keir Starmer. “Our Armed Forces are among the best in the world, and this government will do whatever it takes to defend our national and economic security.”

Personnel established the submarine was a distraction and worked with allies, incl­u­ding Norway, to monitor oth­er Russian units from the Main Directorate of Deep Sea Research (GUGI) operating near infrastructure elsewhere. “While many were focused on West Asia, our forces were responding to Russian threats north of the UK,” said Defence Secretary John Healey. 

“To Putin, I say this: we see your activity over our underwater infrastructure. Any attempt to damage it will have serious consequences.”

The target is believed to have been subsea fibre optic cables essential for digital communications, which und­erpin global banking and trade. The Royal Navy deployed HMS St Albans, RFA Tidespring and Merlin helicopters to track the submarine alongside RAF P8 aircraft.

“While the submarine has headed back, the UK remains ready to respond should Russian vessels return,” the ministry added. 

GUGI is a military programme designed to survey or destroy infrastructure during conflict. The UK is now stepping up commitment to protect these assets, including an additional £100 million for its P8 aircraft.

—PTI