UK Unveils Atlantic Strategy to Counter Rising Russian Undersea Threat

The Royal Navy has launched a new Atlantic strategy featuring advanced underwater drones and surveillance systems to protect vital subsea infrastructure from Russia’s growing presence. A key component, the SG-1 Fathom submarine glider, is being trialled to autonomously patrol for months, detect hostile submarines and support the Atlantic Bastion programme — a network of drones, warships and aircraft. Officials say the rising activity of Russian vessels near British waters, including suspected attempts to map cables and pipelines, has prompted faster deployment of new technology.

Defence Secretary John Healey says the move is a direct response to a 30% surge in Russian submarine activity in the past two years. The government recently highlighted risks after a Russian research vessel, Yantar, allegedly shone lasers at RAF pilots monitoring its route near the UK. Healey stressed that Russia continues to invest heavily in its submarine fleet and warned that protecting undersea infrastructure, including telecom and energy links, is now a national security priority.

Despite ambitious plans, critics argue the UK lacks sufficient naval resources and is relying on drones to fill gaps. Experts warn the Royal Navy has neglected its historic role in guarding the western Atlantic, forcing it to “play catch-up” even as threats grow. First Sea Lord Gen Sir Gwyn Jenkins acknowledged the urgency, urging allies such as Norway to join the UK in countering Russian undersea strategy before the technological gap narrows further.

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