British destroyers and frigates tracked Russian ships in the North Sea
The UK Royal Navy has completed a three-day operation tracking Russian Navy warships and shadow fleet vessels within UK waters. During the mission, British military forces monitored the movements of Russian destroyers and cargo ships subject to international sanctions. This was reported by Royal Navy, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
During a three-day patrol, a group comprising the destroyer HMS Duncan, the frigate HMS St Albans, and the patrol ship HMS Severn monitored the North Sea and English Channel. The military utilised radar and sensor systems to track the movement of the Russian destroyer Admiral Levchenko, as well as the cargo vessels General Skobelev and Sparta.
A Merlin helicopter launched from HMS St Albans joined the operation, extending aerial surveillance as the Russian task group approached the Strait of Dover. Simultaneously, HMS Mersey provided an escort for the Russian replenishment vessel Akademik Pashin.
Monitoring the Russian Shadow Fleet
Russia was forced to deploy additional military resources, including the frigate Neustrashimy, to guard its vessels while passing through monitored zones. Following the escort, monitoring duties were handed over to NATO allies off the coast of France near Ushant.
Statistics indicate a 25% increase in Royal Navy operations during the first eight months of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This heightened activity is a response to Russia’s attempts to evade international sanctions to fund military operations.
Consequences for Russian Logistics
The increased presence of NATO warships is forcing Russian shadow fleet vessels to alter their routes, resulting in delays and additional costs for Moscow. In June, the UK successfully intercepted the tanker Smyrtos, which was transporting sanctioned oil.
The UK has sanctioned over 500 vessels, contributing to a 24% year-on-year decline in Russian oil and gas revenues in 2025. The Royal Navy command confirmed its commitment to continue these operations alongside international partners to uphold international maritime law.
Illustrative photo: LA(Phot) Nicky Wilson / OGL v1.0
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