Underwater Spy Devices Found Near UK Submarines Raise Security Concerns

London, England — Russian underwater sensors have been discovered in waters surrounding the UK, believed to be part of a covert operation to monitor the nation’s nuclear submarines, according to a report by The Sunday Times. The Royal Navy found some of these devices washed ashore, while others were identified through naval surveillance. This revelation has heightened national security concerns amid an escalating situation with Moscow.

The sensors, suspected to be planted by the Kremlin, aim to gather intelligence on the UK’s four Vanguard-class submarines, which are armed with nuclear missiles. One of these submarines is continuously deployed at sea as part of the UK’s strategic deterrent. The discovery of the sensors has not been officially confirmed by the British government, but experts are calling it a significant threat.

“There should be no doubt, there is a war raging in the Atlantic,” a senior military figure told The Sunday Times. “This is a game of cat and mouse that has continued since the ending of the Cold War and is now heating up again. We are seeing phenomenal amounts of Russian activity.” The report stems from a three-month investigation involving discussions with former defense ministers and military experts.

The UK government is reportedly concerned about the vulnerabilities of its underwater infrastructure, particularly as about 90% of its data flow relies on undersea cables. Plans are being considered to tighten cooperation between the military and private technology firms to bolster defenses against potential Russian sabotage.

Captain Simon Pressdee of the Royal Navy emphasized the need to address these threats. “Our role is to both defeat any threats to the UK as well as take it out of the greyzone,” said Pressdee. This involves understanding the adversary and providing evidence to ensure accountability.

The recent focus on the Russian operations comes in the wake of multiple incidents involving underwater cables in the Baltic Sea, suggesting a broader campaign of surveillance against the UK and its allies. A defense source indicated that unmanned Russian vehicles had been detected near critical communication lines.

Tobias Ellwood, a former UK defense minister, echoed these concerns, stating, “The sensors are only half the story,” while asserting that Russia has established remote seabed platforms designed to assist mini submarines. He noted that approximately 60% of the UK’s gas supply comes via a single line from Norway, highlighting Britain’s vulnerability to potential attacks.

The UK’s response to the increasing threat included the commissioning of its deep-sea surveillance vessel, the RFA Proteus, which entered service in 2023. However, military insiders advocate for an expanded fleet to counteract growing threats.

Defence Secretary John Healey recently acknowledged the ongoing surveillance of Russian vessels in British waters. He stated, “We see you” when referencing Russian naval activity, underpinning the government’s commitment to enhancing surveillance capabilities.

In light of the recent discoveries, British military officials are contemplating further defensive measures which may include the deployment of sea mines around critical infrastructure, a tactic not used since the end of the Cold War. Moreover, the government is exploring a new program, codenamed Cabot, intended to address the immediate threats to underwater communications and energy supplies.

As the geopolitical situation continues to evolve, the UK’s defense posture remains in active development to enhance its maritime operations. The increased presence of Russian entities in the region raises ongoing concerns about national security and the integrity of underwater networks essential to the UK’s survival and operational capability.