LONDON 

UK Defense Secretary John Healey on Wednesday issued a strong warning to Russia after a “Russian spy ship” was spotted loitering near the UK’s critical undersea infrastructure.

The ship, Yantar, entered the UK’s exclusive economic zone on Monday, approximately 45 miles (72.4 kilometers) off the British coast, and has remained there for two days.

In a statement to parliament, Healey revealed that the Yantar is suspected of gathering intelligence and mapping vital underwater infrastructure.

“Let me be clear, this is a Russian spy ship used for gathering intelligence and mapping the UK’s critical underwater infrastructure,” Healey told MPs, confirming that the ship’s actions are being closely monitored by British forces.

Russia classifies the Yantar as an oceanic research vessel, operated by the country's Defense Ministry.

However, Western nations have frequently tracked the ship in European waters, suspecting that part of its mission involves mapping undersea infrastructure, including critical power cables, pipelines, and internet connections.

 'We see you'

The UK Defense Ministry has deployed a strong response, with Royal Air Force maritime patrol aircraft, three Royal Navy ships, and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary all assigned to shadow the vessel.

Healey stated that while the Yantar has thus far complied with international navigation laws, its activities are being closely tracked.

This is the second time the Yantar has entered UK waters, following a similar incident in November.

On that occasion, Healey authorized a Navy submarine to surface in the vicinity of the “spy ship,” signaling to Russia that Britain had been monitoring the vessel covertly.

Shortly afterward, the Yantar left UK waters and headed toward the Mediterranean.

In his statement, Healey emphasized that Russia remains the “most pressing and immediate threat to Britain,” and that any threat from the country would be met with “strength and resolve.”

“I also wanted President Putin to hear this message: we see you, we know what you’re doing, and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country,” he added.

The incident came amid heightened tensions between the UK and Russia, as the two nations remain at odds over various geopolitical issues, including Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine.

Equipped with advanced surveillance technology, the Yantar is also capable of deploying submersible drones that can reach the ocean floor, raising further security fears among Western governments.