Portsmouth-based HMS Duncan was activated by NATO Allied Maritime Command, headquartered at Northwood in London, to shadow Russian destroyer Vice Admiral Kulakov through the English Channel during the operation.
This represents the first time a Royal Navy warship has been tasked under the alliance’s direct command for such an operation, forming part of wider security efforts across northern Europe. The mission complements ongoing work by Plymouth-based HMS Somerset with NATO in the North Atlantic.
The Type 45 destroyer utilised her advanced sensors and systems to intercept the Kulakov in the North Sea, monitoring her passage westward through the Channel towards the island of Ushant off the French coast.
A Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron, based at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, joined the operation to provide air support and maintain surveillance of the Russian vessel. The coordinated effort involved three nations, including a Dutch Air Force NH90 and the French Navy.
The operation underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding UK waters and protecting national security through the Plan for Change.
Al Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces, said: “The Royal Navy stands ready to respond to any Russian Naval activity. They conduct constant monitoring operations to safeguard Britain and our territorial waters.
“Once again the Royal Navy has deployed under Allied Maritime Command underpinning our unwavering solidarity with NATO to counter Russian activity.”