Russian warship carries out live-firing exercise off UK coast

WorldPolitics
21 Jul 2026 • 4:31 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Russian warship carries out live-firing exercise off UK coast

A Russian warship carried out a live-fire artillery exercise off the coast of Plymouth on Monday, the Ministry of Defence said.

The Russian frigate, Neustrashimy, was being shadowed by a Royal Navy ship and a French military aircraft during the operation, which lasted around 30 minutes.

The warship is understood to have informed the Royal Navy offshore patrol vessel HMS Tyne of its intentions ahead of time.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “A Russian naval vessel shadowed by the Royal Navy conducted a live-fire weapons exercise in international waters approximately 40 nautical miles south of Plymouth yesterday.

“The Royal Navy monitored that exercise throughout, continues to track the vessel’s activity closely, and stands ready to protect UK national security.”

The exercise took place in international waters and lasted for 30 minutes.

Russian warships regularly pass through International waters in the English Channel. In September last year, British crews shadowed the Neustrashimy as it escorted a cargo ship through the North Sea and the Channel.

Last month, the Navy said it had carried out a three-month-long “unbroken watch” on Russian warships and accompanying vessels in UK waters, including a frigate which fired a warning shot on a British yacht.

Five navy ships were involved in the monitoring of the Admiral Grigorovich, which opened fire in the incident involving the yacht Bright Future south of the Isle of Wight on 16 June.

In April, the 3,500-tonne vessel was observed accompanying two other shadow fleet ships along England’s southern coast, with the British tanker RFA Tideforce trailing behind.

The Neustrashimy’s live-fire exercise comes just a day after Andy Burnham became Britain’s prime minister, appointing former defence secretary John Healey as his Chancellor.

Mr Healey resigned as Sir Keir’s defence secretary last month following a row over the defence investment plan.

Read More

Ukraine war live: Russia strikes tanker near Romania as it steps up attacks on ships

India summons Russian envoy after seafarers killed in strike on ship leaving Ukraine

Life continues in Kyiv’s frequently targeted Lukianivka neighborhood, in photos

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved