A Russian warship sailing in international waters near UK territory was given a British escort on Christmas day, the Royal Navy revealed.
On Christmas Eve, patrol vessel HMS Tyne was called out to monitor an intelligence-gathering Russian vessel as it traversed the North Sea and the English Channel.
The Royal Navy says it has seen an uptick in Russian vessels transiting UK waters over the holidays.
A Wildcat helicopter was also dispatched to monitor two other Russian vessels, the Royal Navy said.
“I will not hesitate in defending our waters or tolerate any form of aggression," UK Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson said in the release, adding that "Britain will never be intimidated when it comes to protecting our country, our people, and our national interests."
