Royal Navy Keeps Close Watch On Russian Naval Groups Transiting UK Waters

Over the last seven days, the Royal Navy, with support from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) and the Royal Air Force (RAF), has closely monitored two Russian Naval Task Groups transiting the UK waters.

The coordinated effort ensured constant surveillance as the groups travelled in opposite directions through the English Channel, one bound for the Atlantic and the other for the Baltic Sea.

The Portsmouth-based frigate HMS Iron Duke and tanker RFA Tideforce were sent to track a Russian formation led by the Admiral Gorshkov-class frigate Admiral Golovko, commissioned in December 2023.

The Golovko was accompanied by the oceanographic research vessel Yantar and the support tanker Vyazma. The Norwegian Navy first tracked the group before British forces took over in the North Sea.

HMS Iron Duke and RFA Tideforce escorted the trio through the Dover Strait and the English Channel, with the French Navy taking up surveillance duties

However, Yantar remained under close watch by Portsmouth-based minehunter HMS Cattistock within the UK’s area of interest.

As Admiral Golovko and Vyazma moved further south, HMS Iron Duke shifted its focus to a second Russian group consisting of the frigate Neustrashimy and its support ship, the tanker Akademik Pashin.

The Russian ships were heading to their home port in the Baltic Sea.

The UK forces used advanced equipment for the operation, including a Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron, a Merlin helicopter from 814 Naval Air Squadron and an RAF P8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.

It also involved aerial support from NATO allies, ensuring seamless monitoring of the Russian vessels.

A Royal Navy official said that the operation was protecting national infrastructure and territorial waters. The Navy has reportedly undertaken 11 such escort missions in recent months.

HMS Iron Duke Commander David Armstrong praised his crew’s dedication, adding that their actions on Remembrance Sunday honoured those who have served before them.

HMS Iron Duke completed its mission by handling escort duties to the Dutch warship HNLMS De Ruyter, a NATO partner, ensuring the Russian group was monitored until it entered the Baltic Sea.

Reference: Royal Navy