Russian submarines surveyed critical infrastructure in Britain
On August 27, it was reported that specialized Russian submarines had been surveying underwater infrastructure in and near British waters. This is according to a report by the U.S. Congressional Research Service.
The report notes that in April 2026, the British government disclosed information about Russia’s covert efforts “to wage a hybrid war against the United Kingdom and its allies,” using specialized submarines to survey critical underwater infrastructure.
Researchers suggest that such reconnaissance by Russia may be intended to prepare for future sabotage operations.
It is noted that the vessels involved belong to Russia’s Main Directorate for Deep-Sea Research, known as the GUGD. This is a specialized unit of the Russian Armed Forces that reports directly to the Ministry of Defense.
The report indicates that the GUD operates a number of specialized submarines, as well as underwater and surface vessels, and its primary tasks include reconnaissance and the collection of maritime intelligence, including the monitoring of foreign naval assets and the operation of underwater surveillance systems. It may also have the capability to disable underwater infrastructure.
According to experts, concerns regarding the seabed are not limited to British waters, as U.S. and NATO authorities warned allies in 2023 and 2024 that Russia is actively mapping underwater infrastructure. The report noted that at least six suspected cases of sabotage or damage to cables in the Baltic Sea were detected between December 2025 and January 2026. In several instances, vessels were allegedly dragging anchors along the seabed.
Source: UK Defence Journal
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