Russian warship comes within meters of Royal Navy vessel in English Channel

The Royal Navy have tracked Russian warships in British waters

They confirmed that British vessels were activated during a four-day operation in the English Channel and North Sea.

HMS Duncan and patrol ship HMS Mersey worked to track RFN Boikiy in the Channel, soon after HMS Trent and Wildcat helicopters from 815 Naval Air Squadron shadowed RFN Admiral Grigorovich from Gibraltar, through the Channel and into the North Sea.

HMS Duncan came across the Steregushchiy-class corvette on 20 June near Ushant, a French island at the southwestern end of the English Channel.

HMS Mersey took over duties near the Isle of Wight from 21 June, while HMS Duncan has returned to training.

“Russian warships are increasingly sailing through the English Channel, and every time they do, a Royal Navy vessel will be keeping an eye on them," Luke Pollard, Minister for the Armed Forces, said.

"I have every confidence, as should the British public, that our Royal Navy will continue to defend our waters and keep our undersea cables safe.”

It comes as fears over Russia damaging vital undersea cables are growing, with a former Royal Navy chief having warned Parliament of the dangers.

Commanding Officer of HMS Duncan, Commander Daniel Lee, added: “Escorting foreign warships through waters near the UK is a vital part of our mission to protect our nation and uphold international maritime law.

“It’s a clear demonstration of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our seas, which are so important to the lives and livelihoods of the British people.

“As a ship’s company, we are proud to carry out this duty on behalf of the nation, showcasing our professionalism and readiness to respond to any task required of us.”