UK armed forces step up monitoring of increased Russian activity in UK waters
The UK Royal Navy increased monitoring of Russian naval activity in British waters and the North Atlantic by 25% in the first seven months of 2025, deploying warships and helicopters to track movements and gather intelligence.
The Royal Navy deployed HMS Somerset, HMS Tyne, HMS Mersey, and HMS Severn alongside Wildcat and Merlin helicopters in July to monitor Russian warships and submarines in UK waters and the North Atlantic. The operations focused on tracking the movements of Russian frigates, including RFN Neustrashimy, which repeatedly escorted shadow fleet tankers within recognized traffic lanes. The increased monitoring reflects a 25% rise in Royal Navy activations compared to the same period in 2025, following the interception of a sanctioned shadow fleet oil tanker, Smyrtos, in the English Channel in June.
HMS Tyne observed RFN Neustrashimy conducting gunnery firings outside UK and French territorial waters on July 20, gathering intelligence on the Russian warship’s weapon systems. The Type 31 frigate moved to within five nautical miles of Neustrashimy, monitoring the fall of shot from its 100mm and 30mm armaments. HMS Tyne’s presence provided reassurance while enabling other fleet units to maintain operational commitments. The deployment highlighted the Royal Navy’s ability to conduct sustained monitoring and close cooperation with allies.
HMS Somerset completed a four-month deployment monitoring surface and sub-surface activity in the North Atlantic, contributing to the UK’s standing operation to protect Britain’s nuclear deterrent. The Plymouth-based Type 23 frigate, equipped with underwater sensors and a Merlin anti-submarine warfare helicopter, sailed over 24,000 nautical miles during the deployment. The ship’s company was praised for their professionalism in tracking submarines, working with NATO allies, and maintaining high operational readiness throughout the mission.
HMS Severn was twice activated in July to monitor Russian warships, including shadowing RFN Admiral Grigorovich and RFN Neustrashimy as they escorted shadow fleet tankers through the Dover Strait and North Sea. The patrol ship conducted a three-day mission to intercept and shadow Neustrashimy, taking over monitoring duties from HMS Mersey. Severn’s crew demonstrated adaptability in shifting between operational and training tasks, underscoring the versatility of offshore patrol vessels in delivering a range of maritime security missions.