A Royal Navy destroyer has recently intercepted a Russian warship while it was navigating UK waters. The operation involved HMS Duncan, a Type 45 destroyer based in Portsmouth, which was deployed under the NATO Allied Maritime Command.
Details of the Interception
This marked a significant deployment as it was the first time a Royal Navy vessel was directly tasked by NATO for such an operation. The operation ran from last Friday to Sunday, with HMS Duncan using advanced sensors to monitor the Russian destroyer, Vice Admiral Kulakov.
- Operation Duration: Friday to Sunday
- Ship Involved: HMS Duncan (Type 45 destroyer)
- Russian Vessel: Vice Admiral Kulakov
- Location: North Sea and English Channel
The destroyer tracked the Kulakov as it journeyed westward towards Ushant, near the French coast, while supported by a Wildcat helicopter. The operation was a collaborative effort, also involving the Dutch Air Force with their NH90 helicopters and the French Navy.
Statements from Officials
Al Carns, the UK Minister for the Armed Forces, stated, “The Royal Navy stands ready to respond to any Russian Naval activity.” He emphasized the continuous monitoring efforts to protect British territorial waters.
Commander Dan Lee, commanding officer of HMS Duncan, remarked, “This operation highlights the Royal Navy’s commitment to safeguarding UK waters.” He noted the seamless collaboration with NATO allies for the security of shared maritime regions.
NATO Operations in Northern European Waters
HMS Duncan is one of two Royal Navy ships that are part of NATO’s Standing Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1), which patrols northern European waters. Details about this interception surfaced amid reports of British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles being used by Ukraine in a significant strike against a chemical plant in Russia.
The UK had permitted Ukraine to employ these missiles within Russian territory as of last year, with the first confirmed attacks occurring in November 2022. This development may provoke increased threats and condemnation from the Kremlin.
