UK thwarts Russian subsea cable intelligence operation

Tech Radar reports that the United Kingdom has successfully disrupted a covert Russian submarine operation aimed at gathering intelligence on subsea cables. British naval and air forces tracked Russian vessels, including an Akula-class submarine and specialized deep-sea units, as they operated near UK waters.

The Russian operation involved subsea vessels from the Main Directorate of Deep Sea Research (GUGI), which specializes in monitoring critical offshore infrastructure. These units, capable of operating at extreme depths and utilizing remote or autonomous vehicles, were reportedly surveying subsea fiber optic cables.

The UK responded by deploying naval frigates, support ships, and maritime patrol aircraft to signal the discovery of the covert activity. Upon detection, the Russian assets retreated to Russian waters. The UK government believes the intent was to map cables for potential future sabotage.

Source: Tech Radar