Royal Navy vessels have recently monitored a Russian task group passing through British waters, according to the Royal Navy. Type 23 frigate HMS Somerset and minehunter HMS Cattistock, alongside RFA Tidesurge and Navy helicopters, closely observed and reported the movements of four Russian vessels as they traveled through the English Channel and the North Sea. The Russian ships, which included destroyer RFN Severomorsk, landing ship RFN Alexander Shabalin, and two transport ships, MV Sparta IV and MV Siyanie Severa, were heading east towards the Baltic Sea. This marks the third occasion in six weeks where the Royal Navy has tracked Russian task groups returning from Syria.
The operation by the Royal Navy began when tanker Tidesurge first spotted the destroyer in the North Sea and as it passed through the Strait of Dover. HMS Somerset, accompanied by her Merlin helicopter from 814 Naval Air Squadron, started monitoring the Russian task group’s escort, Severomorsk, south of Portsmouth. Additionally, the RAF deployed a P8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from RAF Lossiemouth to gather crucial information as the Russian vessels navigated through the area. The Udaloy-class Severomorsk eventually met the cargo and landing ships in the western part of the Channel, off Cornwall, where HMS Cattistock was already keeping an eye on the Russian group.
As the Russian ships made their way back east through the Channel and the North Sea towards the Baltic Sea, the Royal Navy vessels utilized powerful sensors and deployed helicopters to meticulously report on every movement. HMS Somerset’s Commanding Officer, Joel Roberts, commended the professionalism displayed by the ship’s crew during the operation. He also highlighted the effectiveness of the coordinated Nato response, emphasizing the importance of integrating air and maritime operations as a significant asset for the Navy. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard expressed his gratitude to all personnel involved in shadowing the Russian convoy, stating that the UK is committed to defending its waters and sending a clear message to Russia
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