Royal Navy tracks Russian vessels and sanctioned tankers through North Sea

The Royal Navy spent three days monitoring Russian Navy ships and sanctioned cargo vessels as they moved south through the North Sea into the English Channel, Defence officials said. HMS Duncan, HMS St Albans and HMS Severn used shipborne radars while a Merlin helicopter provided aerial surveillance during the operation, which took place in August.

According to an official statement, the task group tracked the Russian destroyer Admiral Levchenko escorting the sanctioned cargo ships General Skobelev and Sparta. The Royal Navy said Russia responded by deploying additional military resources, including the frigate Neustrashimy, and a NATO ally later assumed monitoring duties off the French coast.

Earlier in the year, Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officers, supported by the RAF, boarded the oil tanker Smyrtos in the English Channel in a six-hour operation. The NCA arrested a 38-year-old Indian national on suspicion of sanctions offences under the Russia Regulations.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

Royal Navy activity to monitor Russian movements has risen by 25% so far this year compared with 2025, the Ministry said. The UK has sanctioned more than 500 vessels identified as part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, and recent operations have forced some of those vessels to alter routes, increasing journey costs and delays, officials added.

Economic analysis from the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies cited in the statement showed oil and gas revenue accounted for 23% of the Russian budget in 2025, the lowest share in 20 years, while noting other tax revenues increased to compensate and that oil prices have risen following the Iran war.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Royal Navy warships and a Merlin helicopter monitored Russian and sanctioned vessels for three days in August.
• Tracked ships included destroyer Admiral Levchenko and sanctioned cargo vessels General Skobelev and Sparta.
• Earlier boarding of tanker Smyrtos led to one arrest on suspicion of sanctions offences.