Britain issued a strong warning to Russia today following the revelation that a Russian submarine mission was detected mapping vital undersea infrastructure near UK waters. Ambassador Neil Holland, representing the UK, Norway, and the Netherlands, spoke out against Russia’s covert activities during a speech in Vienna.
The British military, along with its allies, monitored a Russian attack submarine and two spy submarines in the North Atlantic for a full month before their retreat. These vessels, including two from the Main Directorate of Deep Sea Research (GUGI), were involved in a month-long operation.
GUGI, a longstanding Russian military program, focuses on developing capabilities for underwater infrastructure surveillance during peacetime, with potential sabotage plans in times of conflict. Holland revealed that Russia instructed these vessels to engage in “hybrid warfare activities” targeting Critical Undersea Infrastructure, which includes crucial seafloor cables essential for internet, data, and financial transactions.
In response to the incident, the UK deployed its Armed Forces to track and deter any malicious activities by the Russian vessels. Holland emphasized that Russia’s covert operations would not go unnoticed, and any attempts to damage the Critical Undersea Infrastructure would face severe consequences.
Defence Secretary John Healey also addressed the escalating threats in the High North, reaffirming support for NATO, Ukraine, and the protection of the UK homeland. He warned Putin that any actions against the underwater infrastructure would not be tolerated and would result in serious repercussions.
