Photo: STEFAN ROUSSEAU / AFP / Getty Images
A Russian spy ship, the Yantar, has entered British waters and directed lasers at military pilots, according to Britain's Defense Secretary John Healey. During a speech in London on Wednesday (November 19), Healey described the incident as part of a "new era of threat" from hostile nations. The Yantar is currently on the edge of British waters, north of Scotland, and is designed for gathering intelligence and mapping undersea cables.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) deployed a Poseidon-8 military plane to track the vessel, and its pilots reported being targeted by lasers. Healey condemned the Russian action as "deeply dangerous" and warned that the UK is ready to respond if the Yantar moves further south. He emphasized that Britain has military options prepared and has altered the navy's rules of engagement to monitor the ship more closely.
The Russian embassy in London dismissed the allegations, claiming the Yantar is an "oceanographic research vessel" operating in international waters. They accused the UK of "Russophobic" behavior and escalating tensions. Despite these denials, Healey insisted that the UK would remain vigilant, especially in light of recent Russian incursions into NATO airspace and other aggressive acts across Europe.
This incident marks the second time this year that the Yantar has been called out for its activities in UK waters. The British government continues to support Ukraine and remains committed to European security, as stated by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. The situation underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions and the UK's readiness to defend its interests.