A Russian naval vessel has conducted a live-fire exercise off the UK coast, approximately 46 miles from Plymouth. The frigate, Neustrashimy, engaged in artillery maneuvers south of Plymouth on Monday, with a Royal Navy ship monitoring its activities. Prior to commencing the gunnery exercise, the Russian frigate informed the Royal Navy vessel, HMS Tyne, of its intentions. The exercise lasted about 30 minutes and occurred in international waters.
The Russian warship requested HMS Tyne to move to a safe distance before proceeding with the military drill. Additionally, a French military aircraft was reported to be monitoring the frigate at the time. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed that the Royal Navy closely monitored the exercise and remains vigilant in tracking the vessel to safeguard UK national security.
This incident reflects a pattern of heightened Russian presence in UK waters in recent months. Last month, Royal Marine Commandos boarded a Russian tanker in the English Channel with support from the RAF and National Crime Agency. The operation involved intercepting and boarding the Smyrtos vessel, which had a crew comprising individuals from Georgia and India.
In a separate incident, a retired British couple aboard a yacht, Bright Future, were targeted by a Russian warship, Admiral Grigorovich, while sailing from the south coast of England towards France. The Russian vessel fired warning shots at the yacht, located approximately 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, beyond UK territorial waters. The MoD clarified that the shots were not aimed at the yacht but were fired to prevent a potential collision.
The series of encounters underscores ongoing tensions and concerns regarding Russian maritime activities near the UK.