UK says Royal Navy steps up Russian monitoring in waters, North Atlantic

The United Kingdom has escalated its surveillance of Russian military activities in UK waters and the North Atlantic, with Royal Navy operations increasing by 25% in the first seven months of 2026 compared to the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Defence. Royal Navy warships and helicopters conducted 21 days of monitoring in July, deploying four vessels and Wildcat helicopters from 815 Naval Air Squadron, as well as Merlin submarine-hunting aircraft.

The Royal Navy monitored the Russian frigate RFN Neustrashimy, which repeatedly transited UK waters while escorting what the UK described as part of Russia's shadow fleet of sanctioned vessels. The monitoring effort intensified following the interception of the Smyrtos oil tanker in the English Channel in June. In July, HMS Tyne monitored Neustrashimy while it conducted gunnery exercises, moving within five nautical miles of the Russian vessel and gathering intelligence.

HMS Somerset also completed a four-month deployment in the North Atlantic, tracking submarines and working with NATO allies. HMS Severn was activated twice in July to monitor Russian warships, including Neustrashimy and RFN Admiral Grigorovich, showcasing the Royal Navy's versatility and ability to adapt to changing operational requirements.