The Royal Navy is shadowing a Russian submarine through British waters which comes as there has been a 30% increase of Russian vessels “threatening UK waters.”
The Russian Kilo-class submarine, Krasnodar is being tracked by a specialist Merlin helicopter from the 814 Naval Air Squadron and a RFA tanker Tidesurge.
The Merlin helicopter is based at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose in Cornwall, was prepared to pivot to anti-submarine operations should it dive below the surface.
Capt James Allen, commanding officer of RFA Tidesurge, said, “There is nothing like a Russian submarine to focus the mind for any mariner.
“Our tasking over the course of three days involved the teamwork and professionalism of all RFA Tidesurge ship’s company, embarked 814 Naval Air Squadron Atlantic Flight and interoperability with near regional Nato allies.
“We worked together as a show of presence and deterrence as we transited from the North Sea to the English Channel.”
Lt-Cdr David Emery, flight commander of 814 Naval Air Squadron’s Atlantic Flight, said, “Maintaining an overt presence and continued over watch of Russian vessels in UK waters is vital for national security.
“The flexibility and professionalism of the crew of RFA Tidesurge allows us to project our helicopter wherever, day or night, in the maritime environment.”
