Russian spy ship beamed lasers on UK military aircraft: Britain

The UK’s Defense Secretary John Healey revealed that a Russian intelligence-gathering ship, the Yantar, operating near the northern coast of Scotland, targeted Royal Air Force Poseidon P-8 maritime patrol aircraft with lasers while conducting surveillance on critical undersea infrastructure, including energy and communications cables linking the UK and NATO allies. The Yantar remained just outside British territorial waters but within the exclusive economic zone. This incident marks the first documented case of Russian forces directing lasers at UK military aircraft, prompting the UK to tighten naval rules of engagement and prepare military options should the vessel approach sensitive areas. Russia’s embassy in London denied the allegations, describing the Yantar as an oceanographic research vessel operating only in international waters and accusing Britain of escalating tensions through “Russophobic” rhetoric. British officials view the Yantar’s activities as part of a broader pattern of Russian hostile actions near NATO territory, including drone incursions and sabotage attempts in Europe. Healey emphasized that despite these threats, the UK remains committed to