A Russian warship conducted a live-fire exercise approximately 46 miles off the coast of Plymouth. The frigate, Neustrashimy, was accompanied by a Royal Navy vessel during the artillery drill that occurred south of Plymouth. Before commencing the live-firing activity, the Russian frigate informed the Royal Navy’s HMS Tyne about their plans. The exercise, which lasted about half an hour, occurred in international waters.

The Russian warship requested HMS Tyne to maintain a safe distance before initiating the military drill. Additionally, a French military aircraft was reportedly monitoring the frigate at the time. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed that the Royal Navy closely monitored the exercise and is vigilant in tracking the vessel’s movements to safeguard UK national security.

This incident reflects an uptick in Russian maritime activities near the UK in recent months. In a separate event, Royal Marine Commandos intercepted a Russian “shadow fleet” oil tanker in the English Channel last month. Supported by the RAF and National Crime Agency, the Marines boarded the Smyrtos vessel, which had a crew of 24 individuals from Georgia and India.

Regarding the incident involving a retired British couple on a yacht, a Russian warship targeted Jane Kelvey, 68, and her husband Alan, 70, as they sailed from the south coast of England towards France. The Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich fired warning shots after attempting to contact the yacht, which was located about 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, outside UK territorial waters. The MoD clarified that the shots were not directed at the vessel but were intended to prevent a potential collision.