Royal Navy tracks Russian warships in English Channel operation
The Royal Navy has tracked Russian naval vessels moving through the English Channel in a recent operation. HMS Mersey and a Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron monitored the Russian frigate RFN Soobrazitelny and the oil tanker MV Anatoly Kolodkin as they travelled westward.
This mission forms part of broader efforts to observe Russian maritime activity near UK waters, often carried out alongside NATO partners. The operation began as the Russian frigate and tanker sailed west through the Channel. Royal Navy units maintained continuous surveillance, ensuring full awareness of their movements. At the western end of the Channel, the tanker proceeded into the Atlantic, while HMS Mersey followed the warship as it turned back east.
Earlier, another operation involved tracking a Ropucha-class landing ship and a merchant vessel. These ships were monitored as they passed through the Strait of Gibraltar, then into the Channel and North Sea. Such missions are regularly conducted in coordination with allied forces to strengthen situational awareness and response capabilities.
Lieutenant Commander Dan Wardle, commanding officer of HMS Mersey, highlighted the ship's readiness and ability to track Russian vessels in UK waters. Fleet Commander Vice-Admiral Steve Moorhouse also noted that the work of HMS Mersey and 815 Naval Air Squadron reflects the Royal Navy's dedication to safeguarding home waters. The Royal Navy's latest operation reinforces its role in monitoring foreign naval activity near the UK. By working with NATO allies, the service maintains vigilance over key maritime routes. These efforts ensure ongoing security and awareness in British waters.
