⚓️🛡️ Russian spy ship Yantar targets UK pilots with lasers

Oneliner

The Russian spy ship Yantar has directed lasers at RAF pilots, escalating tensions in UK waters. Defense Secretary John Healey confirmed the incident, stating that the UK is prepared to respond to any incursions. The Yantar has entered British waters multiple times this year, raising concerns over the security of undersea infrastructure. The UK has deployed naval and air assets to monitor the situation closely, with changes to engagement rules allowing for closer tracking of the vessel.

Key points

• The Russian spy ship Yantar has directed lasers at RAF pilots, marking a significant escalation in tensions.
• UK Defense Secretary John Healey has warned of military readiness to respond to incursions into UK waters.
• The Yantar has entered British waters multiple times this year, raising concerns over undersea infrastructure security.
• Changes to naval engagement rules allow closer monitoring of the Yantar by British forces.

Links

• Diário de Notícias: Ministro diz que "navio espião russo" apontou lasers contra pilotos da Força Aérea britânica
• Politico: Russian spy ship 'directed lasers' at UK forces, says defense secretary
• Associated Press: UK defense secretary warns Russia it is ready to deal with any incursions into UK waters
• The Guardian: Russian spy ship enters British waters and shines lasers at military pilots

Facts

• The Yantar has entered UK waters multiple times in 2025, with lasers directed at RAF pilots for the first time.
• UK Defense Secretary John Healey has warned of military readiness to respond to incursions.
• The Royal Navy and RAF have deployed assets to monitor the Yantar's activities.
• Changes to naval engagement rules allow closer tracking of the Yantar.

Quotes

• That Russian action is deeply dangerous — John Healey
• We see you. We know what you’re doing — John Healey
• If the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready — John Healey

Article