Royal Navy Confronts Russian Vessels in UK Waters
The Royal Navy has intercepted two Russian military ships, a warship and a support tanker, as they transited through the Dover Strait and the English Channel. The incident, which took place on Monday 24 November 2025, saw the HMS Severn shadow the Russian vessels in a clear demonstration of the UK's vigilant defence posture.
A Pattern of Increased Russian Naval Activity
This interception is not an isolated event. It follows a reported 30 per cent increase in Russian vessels operating near or 'threatening' UK waters over the past two years. The specific ships involved were identified as the RFN Stoikiy corvette and an accompanying tanker.
The situation is further escalated by recent disclosures from Defence Secretary John Healey. He revealed that the Russian spy ship, Yantar, has been involved in aggressive acts, including pointing lasers at RAF pilots and causing GPS jamming for another Royal Navy vessel, HMS Somerset.
UK's Firm Response and NATO Surveillance
In a stark message directed at the Kremlin, John Healey stated, 'We see you. We know what you’re doing. If the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.' This direct warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin underscores the UK government's resolve.
As part of a coordinated NATO effort, the Royal Air Force has deployed P-8 Poseidon aircraft to Iceland. These advanced surveillance planes are now conducting operations in the North Atlantic and Arctic, monitoring Russian movements as part of the alliance's collective defence strategy.
The government has also faced internal criticism, with the Speaker berating it for allegedly leaking details about the Russian spy ship to the media, highlighting the political sensitivity surrounding these national security incidents.
