Royal Navy Tracks Russian Spy Ship in English Channel

The UK Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset intercepted and monitored the Russian spy ship Yantar as it passed through the English Channel, marking the vessel’s second incursion near critical undersea infrastructure in recent months.

The Plymouth-based Type 23 frigate, equipped with advanced radars and sensors, took over shadowing duties from NATO allies near the Ushant traffic separation scheme off the French coast. As Yantar made its way north, Somerset covertly launched its Merlin helicopter to pinpoint the vessel’s location. The frigate then intercepted Yantar at the entrance to the Channel and maintained close proximity through the Strait of Dover, reporting on every move.

The operation also involved the Royal Navy patrol sh…