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UK says Russian submarines probed North Atlantic undersea cables

Defence Secretary John Healey said two Russian submarines tracked undersea cables and critical seabed infrastructure in the North Atlantic, prompting a Royal Navy response and a public warning while UK forces inspect for damage.

Apr 9th 2026 · United Kingdom

Insights

  • Two Russian submarines were detected monitoring undersea cables and seabed infrastructure north of the British Isles, the UK said.
  • A Royal Navy ship and a military aircraft monitored and deterred the submarines after an operation lasting about a month.
  • The UK is inspecting the affected infrastructure and has reported no confirmed damage so far.
  • Defence Secretary John Healey described the activity as hybrid warfare and warned of consequences for any attempt to damage cables or pipelines.
  • The government highlighted NATO cooperation with Norway and stressed UK dependence on submarine cables for gas supply and nearly all telecommunications.

Sources