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2h ago

UK Tightens Rules as Russian Ship Targets RAF With Lasers Off Scotland

Officials link the Yantar to Russian seabed operations, with military action signaled if it closes on the UK.

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British Defence Secretary John Healey delivers a speech on how the UK's defence industry is delivering growth and national renewal across the UK, at No 9 Downing Street in central London. Picture date: Wednesday November 19, 2025. Stefan Rousseau/Pool via REUTERS
British Defense Secretary John Healey speaks in Downing Street on Wednesday, next to a screen showing the Yantar, a Russian spy ship.
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Overview

  • Defence Secretary John Healey said the Yantar is on the edge of UK waters north of Scotland after entering the UK's wider waters in recent weeks.
  • A Royal Navy frigate and RAF P-8 Poseidon aircraft are tracking the vessel, whose crew directed lasers at RAF pilots during monitoring flights.
  • Healey called the laser use deeply dangerous and said it is the first time Yantar has targeted British RAF pilots in this way.
  • The UK has changed Royal Navy rules of engagement to allow closer shadowing and has prepared military options should the ship move south toward Britain.
  • London assesses Yantar as part of Russia’s GUGI program that can map or threaten undersea cables, while the Russian embassy denies hostile intent and calls it an oceanographic research vessel.