British Defense Chief Warns of Russian Spy Ship’s Threat in UK Waters

London, UK — A Russian spy ship has reportedly entered British waters and aimed lasers at military pilots, prompting a warning from UK Defense Secretary John Healey on Wednesday. This incident marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations and underscores what Healey described as a “new era of threat” from hostile actors.

During a press conference at Downing Street, Healey noted that the Yantar is currently located on the edge of British waters, near Scotland. The ship is known for its role in intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.

Healey stated that a Royal Air Force Poseidon-8 aircraft was deployed to monitor the vessel’s movements and that its pilots experienced laser targeting while on duty. “That Russian action is deeply dangerous,” he said. “We see you, we know what you’re doing, and if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.”

The Russian embassy in London reacted strongly, dismissing Healey’s statements as “provocative” and insisting that the Yantar is merely an oceanographic research vessel operating in international waters, not a threat to British security.

According to reports, the Yantar has entered Britain’s exclusive economic zone multiple times recently, without venturing deep into territorial waters. Healey emphasized that these actions would not deter the UK from supporting Ukraine and indicated that the government remains vigilant against incursions into NATO airspace.

This incident is not the first of its kind; the Yantar has been tracked in UK waters before, with previous encounters occurring earlier this year. The Defense Secretary has adjusted the navy’s rules of engagement to enable closer monitoring of the ship.

Healey said this newest action exemplifies Russia‘s continued aggressive posture towards NATO territories. He urged caution, highlighting an environment where incursions and provocations are on the rise. “Our world is changing. It is less predictable. It is more dangerous,” he warned.