Royal Navy warship tracks Russian sub in UK waters

This was the sixth time in three months that HMS Mersey had been called upon for a task like this

The Royal Navy dispatched a warship and helicopters to monitor a surfaced Russian submarine as it sailed west through the North Sea and English Channel.

Portsmouth-based patrol ship HMS Mersey led out a Wildcat helicopter, and a specialist submarine hunting Merlin aircraft to report on RFN Novorossiysk, which was supported by a Russian tug boat.

The operation, which took place at the end of last week and over the weekend, was part of the government's ongoing commitment to safeguard the integrity of UK waters and protecting national security.

HMS Mersey's commanding officer, Lt Cdr Dan Wardle, called the monitoring of naval vessels, as they pass through our area, a "fundamental task".

He said it is "one that ensures we maintain situational awareness and the ability to respond swiftly when required".

It was the sixth time HMS Mersey had been called upon for monitoring in the past three months.

Two helicopters joined the operation to monitor the vessel

The British warship and helicopters utilised powerful sensors and systems to watch every move the Russian vessels made during their voyage.

"I am proud of my ship's company, whose professionalism, cohesion, and constant readiness continue to reflect the high standards expected of Royal Navy personnel," Lt Cdr Wardle said.

HMS Mersey handed over monitoring duties to Nato allies as the Russians left UK waters.