UK says Russia ran submarine operation over cables and pipelines
UK Condemns Russian Submarine Activity Near Critical Infrastructure
UK Defence Secretary John Healey disclosed that three Russian submarines carried out a covert mission in waters off the UK’s coast, targeting undersea cables and energy pipelines. The operation, he claimed, was part of Moscow’s efforts to undermine British infrastructure, though no damage was confirmed. British naval and aerial assets were deployed to monitor the activity, ensuring the submarines could not operate undetected.
Russian Submarines and the UK’s Strategic Response
Healey revealed that an Akula-class submarine was used as a distraction, while two Guggi vessels conducted surveillance of the cables. The first Akula was observed leaving UK waters shortly after being tracked, while the two Guggi subs remained. The Royal Navy deployed a Type 23 frigate, HMS St Albans, along with the RFA Tidespring and Merlin helicopters, to monitor all three submarines. Other countries, including Norway, also participated in the tracking effort.
“We see you. We see your activity over our cables and our pipelines, and you should know that any attempt to damage them will not be tolerated and will have serious consequences,” Healey stated.
He emphasized that the UK’s undersea cables and pipelines are vital to its data and energy systems. Approximately 60 cables land along the UK coastline, with East Anglia and South West England being key areas. These cables handle over 90% of daily internet traffic. Additionally, the UK depends on a network of underwater gas pipelines in the North Sea, which supply energy from the UK and Norwegian Continental Shelves. The Langeled pipeline, spanning 724 miles, is a critical link between Norway and the UK, with 77% of the nation’s gas imports coming through it.
Hybrid Warfare and Geopolitical Context
Healey linked the operation to Russia’s broader strategy of hybrid warfare, aimed at pressuring Western nations to scale back support for Ukraine. This tactic involves covert, deniable attacks that avoid direct attribution as an act of war. BBC InDepth reported in 2025 that Russia had been conducting such campaigns against the UK and Europe. The Russian embassy previously denied interest in British underwater communications, though Healey argued that the mission exposed Moscow’s intent to threaten vital UK interests.
Despite acknowledging Russia still poses a security risk, Healey expressed confidence in the UK’s ability to detect and counter future operations. “Our forces made it clear they were being watched, their movements were no longer secret, and their mission had been revealed,” he added, highlighting the nation’s proactive monitoring efforts.
