In a significant development, two British warships were deployed to escort Russian military vessels away from UK waters earlier today.
The Royal Navy’s HMS Cattistock and HMS Somerset were dispatched after the RAF detected the Russian ships – the Severomorsk and Aleksandr Shabalin – navigating the English Channel near Folkestone and Dover.
The Royal Air Force reported that the situation was detected yesterday, with their P-8 Poseidon aircraft spotting the Russian vessels in the area.
Following this detection, the Navy quickly sent out the warships to ensure the foreign vessels left British territorial waters without incident.
A Closer Look at the Russian Vessels
The two Russian ships involved in this operation are formidable.
The Severomorsk is a destroyer that spans over 530 feet in length and is equipped with a wide range of powerful weapons, including anti-aircraft cannons, missiles, and torpedoes. It also carries up to two military helicopters.
On the other hand, the Aleksandr Shabalin is a landing ship, measuring 369 feet long, and is capable of transporting armored vehicles and marines.
It has been seen in British waters before, including in January, when it was monitored by a P-8A Poseidon aircraft from RAF Lossiemouth.
While the reason for their presence in the area is still unclear, their appearance follows a series of similar incidents, including the sighting of another Russian warship escorting a sanctioned cargo ship through the English Channel earlier this year.
Rising Tensions and Military Movements
This latest incident is part of a broader pattern of increased Russian military activity near the UK.
Just weeks ago, a Russian corvette, the Boikiy, was seen accompanying a cargo ship in the English Channel.
This cargo ship, the Baltic Leader, had been sanctioned by the U.S. in 2022 for its links to Russia and its involvement in transporting weapons.
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, the presence of Russian military vessels in the English Channel and nearby waters has raised concerns.
Experts suggest that the military hardware being transported could be used to bolster Russia’s military strength in Ukraine or other key regions.
The Boikiy’s escort mission began in early March and was closely monitored by both British and Belgian naval forces.
The HMS Somerset, a highly capable frigate, was involved in tracking the ships across the English Channel and the North Sea.
It utilized its advanced sensors and radars to keep a close eye on Russian movements, with additional support from UK patrol aircraft and NATO allies.
What’s Next?
As the situation continues to unfold, many are wondering what the next steps will be.
The Royal Navy remains on high alert, with constant monitoring of any further Russian military movements.
The increasing frequency of such incidents points to the growing geopolitical tensions in the region, especially in light of Russia’s ongoing military activities in Ukraine.