A Royal Navy destroyer and a helicopter monitored a Russian warship as it sailed through UK waters in the English Channel.
The Portsmouth-based HMS Duncan was operating under the command of NATO as it monitored the destroyer Vice Admiral Kulakov, the first time such an operation has been undertaken.
‘This represents the first time a Royal Navy warship has been tasked under the alliance’s direct command for such an operation, forming part of wider security efforts across northern Europe,’ a Navy spokesman said.
The coordinated effort saw the Dutch Air Force and French Navy also join monitoring of the Vice Admiral Kulakov.
HMS Duncan’s commanding officer, Commander Dan Lee, said: ‘This operation highlights the Royal Navy’s commitment to safeguarding UK waters and working seamlessly with our Nato allies to ensure the security of our shared maritime spaces.
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‘The close co-ordination between UK, French and Dutch forces demonstrates the strength of our alliance and our ability to respond collectively to any activity in our region.
‘The professionalism and teamwork displayed by all involved ensured the operation was conducted safely and effectively, showcasing our shared resolve to uphold international maritime norms.’
HMS Duncan is one of two Royal Navy warships attached to the Nato task force Standing Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1), which patrols northern European waters.
Last month, UK crews shadowed a Russian warship and a freighter through UK seas – though that wasn’t a part of a NATO command effort.
That escort came amid a warning that Moscow is sending a rising number of vessels through British waters.
The English Channel is one of the busiest maritime passages in the world, with thousands of ships passing through. But the defence forces have said there’s been an increase in warships transiting through the channel.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard warned: ‘Russian warships are increasingly transiting through the English Channel. The Royal Navy protects the UK 24/7 to monitor Russian movements, ensuring the security of our waters and undersea cables.’
It was the 18th time the Type 23 frigate had been activated on a mission of this type in the past 12 months, monitoring 25 Russian vessels.
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