The Royal Navy is honing its once formidable anti-submarine skills, a vital role should hostile powers blockade the Atlantic, experts say.
Royal Navy Commanders believe the UK is prepared to play its part if it needs to deny Russia access to the North Atlantic, following Nato’s largest anti-submarine exercise.
This year’s Exercise Dynamic Mongoose, the first since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, “had a different feel” for the 15 vessels involved.
In times of war, Moscow’s objective would be to prevent US naval assets resupplying Europe. It will be up to Nato’s navies to thwart this.
Royal Navy submarine hunter HMS Northumberland used advanced sonar during the exercise.
“We routinely train and undertake live operations in the North Atlantic,” said Northumberland’s most experienced submarine hunter, Chief Petty Officer Chris Griffiths.
“To be able to bring this experience to support our Nato allies is beneficial to all.”
First Sea Lord Admiral Lord West said: “Britain used to be the world’s pre-eminent anti-submarine warfare navy.
“We let that slip but there are signs we are heading back in that direction once more.”
More than 1,500 UK troops will be sent to Estonia for a Nato exercise involving thousands of personnel.
Eleven Nato countries are involved in Exercise Spring Storm.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “While the Russian Army continues its illegal invasion of Ukraine, threatening stability in Europe, the UK and allies will continue to support Ukraine and defend our shared values and freedom.”
