A Russian spy ship lashed out with lasers at UK surveillance aircraft prowling near Scottish waters, Defence Secretary John Healey has revealed. The aggressive move aimed to distract RAF pilots gathering intel on the vessel’s covert activities.
Yantar Targets UK Undersea Defences
Speaking at Downing Street, Healey confirmed the Yantar – a Russian ship specialising in undersea spying – has slipped into UK waters twice this year. He slammed the laser assaults as “deeply dangerous” and warned the UK is taking the threat “very seriously.”
“The Yantar is part of a Russian fleet designed to put our undersea infrastructure and that of our allies at risk,” Healey said. “We track it, we deter it, and we are ready to act if necessary.”
Royal Navy Cranks Up Surveillance Amid Rising Tensions
In response, the Royal Navy has updated its rules of engagement to allow closer tailing of the Yantar. Military options are standing by should the spy ship ramp up its provocative behaviour or change course.
This marks the first known laser attack on RAF pilots by the Yantar, signalling a worrying spike in Russian naval brinkmanship near British shores.
