26-04-2025
Royal Navy scrambles warship to see off Russian frigate lurking in English Channel
SEA STANDOFF Royal Navy scrambles warship to see off Russian frigate lurking in English Channel
THE Royal Navy has leapt into action after a Russian warship was spotted slipping through the English Channel.
The Russian frigate Admiral Golovko was spotted heading east through the English Channel — swiftly prompting the Navy to launch HMS St Albans to shadow the vessel and escort it out of UK waters.
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HMS St Albans is a Type 23 Duke-class frigate of the Royal Navy
Credit: Getty
The Navy also launched a Merlin Helicopter to further investigate the RFN Admiral Golovoko.
HMS St Albans Commanding Officer, Commander Matt Teare, said: 'HMS St Albans is at very high readiness to operate whenever, and wherever, the nation needs us in the protection of our home and the waters surrounding it.
'We have twice been activated in recent weeks to conduct this type of operation and I am extremely proud of the professionalism of my crew and their tireless dedication to keeping our nation safe.
'We were proud to work alongside HMS Mersey and I would like to thank RFA Tidesurge for her logistical support during the operation.'
He added: 'HMS St Albans is currently operating as part of a NATO Task Group and the regularity of Russian activity around the United Kingdom reinforces the vital importance of continuous integration with our allies and partners.'
Once the Russian warship had reached Mediterranean waters, NATO allies stepped in.
