The Royal Navy has been closely monitoring a suspected Russian 'spy ship,' Admiral Vladimirskiy, as it traveled through UK waters along the English Channel. The vessel, which is officially classed as an oceanographic research ship, has long been suspected of conducting covert surveillance for the Russian military.

The Admiral Vladimirskiy was first spotted in the southern North Sea on Thursday, March 20, before traveling through the Strait of Dover and continuing along the southern coast of the UK. In response, the Royal Navy deployed minehunter HMS Cattistock, based in Dorset, and a Wildcat helicopter to track the ship’s movements. They kept a close watch through busy shipping lanes until the vessel exited the Channel just west of the Brest Peninsula in Brittany, France.

Shortly after, another operation followed when the Russian landing ship RFN Alexander Otrakovsky and merchant vessel MV Ascalon were spotted heading towards the Baltic Sea through the English Channel and the North Sea. In this case, the Royal Navy dispatched the Type 23 frigate HMS Somerset, based in Plymouth, along with tanker RFA Tidesurge and a Merlin helicopter to escort the Russian vessels on their journey.

This marks the third time this month that HMS Somerset has been called upon to monitor Russian convoys returning from the Mediterranean. These operations highlight the Royal Navy’s commitment to protecting national security, securing trade routes, and safeguarding UK waters.

Commander Joel Roberts of HMS Somerset commented: 'Somerset has been frequently activated to conduct this type of operation due to the high tempo of Russian activity around the United Kingdom’s territorial and sensitive waters. By maintaining units at very high readiness, the Royal Navy offers presence, deterrence, persistence, and flexibility, allowing us to respond to a range of military and diplomatic options in support of our national objectives.'

Lieutenant Commander Rob Garner of HMS Cattistock added: 'Cattistock has escorted numerous Russian warships and government-owned vessels through UK waters in recent weeks and months, demonstrating the Royal Navy’s operational readiness and commitment to UK security at sea. I’m extremely proud of my ship’s professionalism and determination as we continue to work closely with other Royal Navy ships, RAF P8 forces, and NATO allies.'