A Royal Navy warship and helicopter participated in a 48-hour NATO mission to monitor a Russian warship within UK waters, marking a significant milestone for the alliance.
HMS Duncan, based in Portsmouth, was called into action by NATO Allied Maritime Command, located in Northwood, London, to trail the Russian destroyer Vice Admiral Kulakov as it navigated through the English Channel during the operation.
The Royal Navy confirmed that this marked the first instance of a Royal Navy vessel being directed by the alliance for such a task, contributing to broader security initiatives in northern Europe. They noted that this operation supplemented the ongoing collaboration between HMS Somerset, based in Plymouth, and NATO in the North Atlantic.
Employing its advanced sensors and systems, the Type 45 destroyer intercepted the Kulakov in the North Sea, tracking its westward journey through the Channel towards the island of Ushant near the French coast.
As part of the operation, a Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron, stationed at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, was deployed to offer aerial support and conduct surveillance of the Russian vessel. The coordinated effort engaged forces from three nations, including a Dutch Air Force NH90 and the French Navy.
This operation highlights the Government’s continuous commitment to safeguarding UK waters and upholding national security through the Plan for Change.
Al Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces, stated: “The Royal Navy remains vigilant towards any Russian naval activities, conducting ongoing monitoring operations to protect Britain and its territorial waters.
“Once again, the Royal Navy has been deployed under Allied Maritime Command, demonstrating our firm solidarity with NATO to counter Russian actions.”
Commander Dan Lee, the Commanding Officer of HMS Duncan, remarked: “This operation showcases the Royal Navy’s dedication to securing UK waters and collaborating seamlessly with our NATO partners to ensure the safety of our shared maritime zones.
“The close coordination among UK, French, and Dutch forces exemplifies the strength of our alliance and our collective ability to respond to activities in our region.
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