A Royal Navy destroyer has intercepted and monitored russian warship as it sailed through UK waters, in a mission carried out under NATO Allied Maritime Command. The HMS Duncan, a Type 45 destroyer based in Portsmouth, was deployed to shadow the Vice Admiral Kulakov destroyer as it passed through the North Sea and English Channel, according to Sky News.
The operation, which took place from Friday to Sunday, marks the first time the Royal Navy warship has been tasked directly under NATO's command for such a mission, according to the Navy spokesperson. The HMS Duncan destroyer was supported by the Wildcat helicopter, which joined in tracking and surveillance duties throughout the vessel's passage.
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During the shadowing operation, the HMS Duncan destroyer used its advanced sensors and systems to intercept the ship and closely monitor its westward route through the English Channel toward the island of Ushant, off the French coast.
The operation also involved cooperation with the Dutch Air Force NH90 helicopter and the French Navy, demonstrating NATO's ability to coordinate and respond quickly to russian naval movements near European waters.
NATO's Allied Maritime Command, headquartered in Northwood, Middlesex, directed the tasking of the HMS Duncan as part of its ongoing mission to maintain security and stability in shared maritime areas.
Al Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces, said the Royal Navy stands ready to respond to any russian naval activity, emphasizing the constant monitoring carried out to safeguard Britain and its territorial waters.
Commander Dan Lee, the HMS Duncan destroyer's commanding officer, said the mission "highlights the Royal Navy's commitment to safeguarding UK waters and working seamlessly with NATO allies to ensure the security of our shared maritime spaces".
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