Royal Navy monitors Russian warship in UK waters for entire month
Portsmouth-based HMS Tyne spent more time shadowing it than any other vessel
A Russian warship has been continuously monitored in UK waters for an entire month by the Royal Navy.
The frigate Admiral Grigorovich has been watched by patrol ships HMS Tyne, HMS Mersey and HMS Severn as it sailed for the whole of April to the west of the UK and in the North Sea including close to the Galloper wind farm off the Suffolk coast.
A Royal Navy spokesman said: “Patrol ships HMS Tyne, HMS Mersey and HMS Severn, tanker RFA Tideforce and Wildcat helicopters from 815 Naval Air Squadron tracked the Russian Navy’s Admiral Grigorovich throughout April.
“There was not one day last month when the Russian warship, her supporting vessels or the ships she was tasked with escorting was not closely watched by Royal Navy air or sea power.
“The Grigorovich moved between the North Sea and Western Approaches, escorting Russian-flagged vessels heading to and from the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Baltic.
“She accompanied one submarine and around six merchant and support vessels during the month.
“The frigate also paused to take on fuel and supplies near key national infrastructure, including the Galloper wind farm off the Suffolk coast.”
Portsmouth-based HMS Tyne spent more time shadowing the Grigorovich than any other vessel.
Tyne’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Sam Fields said: “I’m extremely proud of the ship’s company. Their professionalism underpins our continuous presence in the North Atlantic, supporting our allies and delivering operational effect.”
Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse said the crews “demonstrated professionalism, resilience and operational readiness”.
He added: “Royal Navy units deployed swiftly to ensure the continuous and seamless monitoring of Russian warships, with multiple assets operating in close coordination to maintain an unbroken posture.
“This sustained effort reflects the Royal Navy’s ability to generate combat-credible forces at readiness, delivering persistent maritime security through leadership, teamwork and operational excellence.”