Britain's waters 'spectacularly exposed' with killer submarines stuck as WW3 fears soar
The Royal Navy fleet is vulnerable to a potential Russian underwater attack, experts have warned.
Britain's waters are vulnerable to Russian threats, as all six of its hunter-killer submarines remain stuck in port with no dry docks available for repairs.
This comes amid a spike in Russian underwater activity, the highest since the Cold War, according to Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin.
These nuclear-powered hunter-killer submarines, designed to attack and sink enemy subs and surface ships, play a crucial role in the Royal Navy Fleet. They conduct short-range attacks, surveillance, and intelligence missions.
However, none of the Astute-class subs, the fleet's newest, have undertaken a single operational voyage this year due to the lack of functional repair docks.
A former sea captain told The Sun that this situation leaves Britain's waters "spectacularly exposed", pointing out that the Navy is now facing the consequences of delayed decision-making.
Reports indicate that HMS Ambush has not sailed for two years, HMS Audacious has spent the last 15 months at His Majesty's Naval Base in Devonport, and HMS Artful and HMS Astute are currently docked at HMNB Clyde.
HMS Triumph attempted a mission this year but had to turn back at Gibraltar after off-loading its Tomahawk missiles. HMS Anson has been to sea only for trials and returned in May.
According to The Sun newspaper, a ship lift used to crane submarines out of the water at Faslane has been out of action for over 12 months after the firm that made the ropes closed down, and replacements have not been found. Additionally, the only suitable dry dock in HMNB Devonport is currently undergoing an upgrade by contractors.
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Admiral Sir Tony Radakin highlighted the increased Russian underwater activity, stating the urgent need for operational submarines.
"Action must be taken now to start rectifying problems of submarine availability and that will involve money", former Navy chief Admiral Lord West said. "Awaiting the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review is not an option."
A Royal Navy spokesperson reassured that British waters are continuously protected with available assets and mentioned significant investments being made in infrastructure bases.
