Silent operation revealed. Russian ships near sensitive infrastructure
Norway and the United Kingdom conducted a joint military operation. Russian submarines near critical infrastructure were monitored. Forces from both countries participated in the operation.
Russia is increasing submarine activity near underwater installations, which may pose a threat to NATO countries’ cables and pipelines.
Fot. wikimedia.org/ fot. Cavernia/ CC BY-SA 4.0 (zdjęcie poglądowe)
Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik confirmed the country's participation in the operation carried out in recent weeks. It was a response to the activity of Russian units in Norwegian and British waters. According to reports, the operation was conducted by the Russian Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, which is part of the armed forces. A Norwegian patrol aircraft and a frigate took part in the operation. The information about the activities was disclosed by British Defense Minister John Healey.
Russian units near infrastructure
British sources reported the detection of three Russian units: one combat submarine and two vessels described as spy ships. The ships operated near underwater cables and pipelines north of the United Kingdom. According to the British Ministry of Defence, the units are based west of the Kola Peninsula. The monitoring operation lasted over a month.
Frigates, aircraft, and hundreds of soldiers were involved in the operation. British ships used sonar systems to track the movements of the Russian units. Minister Healey stated that the ships had left the area of operations and emphasized that no infrastructure damage was recorded. He also issued a warning to the Russian authorities.
Frigates, aircraft, and hundreds of soldiers were involved in the operation. British ships used sonar systems to track the movements of the Russian units. Minister Healey stated that the ships had left the area of operations and emphasized that no infrastructure damage was recorded. He also issued a warning to the Russian authorities.
Russia's activity was described as deliberate and planned.Photo: Council.gov.ru, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Military cooperation and tensions in the region
Norway and the United Kingdom are strengthening military cooperation. A new defense agreement was signed in December. The aim is to reinforce NATO's presence in the North Atlantic region. The Norwegian government emphasizes the importance of cooperation for the security of allies. Recently, the NATO Cold Response exercises took place in Norway.
The participation of exercise participants in this operation has not been confirmed. Minister Sandvik pointed out the development of Russian capabilities, particularly activities related to reconnaissance and potential sabotage of underwater infrastructure. He stressed that this activity is a warning signal, but also noted that neither side is interested in increasing tensions in the region.
The participation of exercise participants in this operation has not been confirmed. Minister Sandvik pointed out the development of Russian capabilities, particularly activities related to reconnaissance and potential sabotage of underwater infrastructure. He stressed that this activity is a warning signal, but also noted that neither side is interested in increasing tensions in the region.
The visit of the British Defense Minister to Norway, including the border with Russia, is part of broader efforts to strengthen the military presence in the northern region and increase supervision over maritime infrastructure.
How do you rate this article?