A Royal Navy destroyer and helicopter have been actively monitoring a Russian warship as it navigated through UK waters in the English Channel. The Portsmouth-based HMS Duncan, operating under NATO command, tracked the destroyer Vice Admiral Kulakov. This operation marks a significant milestone as it is the first time a Royal Navy vessel has been tasked under NATO's direct command for such a mission. A Navy spokesperson described the deployment as a "historic first," stating, "This represents the first time a Royal Navy warship has been tasked under the alliance’s direct command for such an operation, forming part of wider security efforts across northern Europe." The Type 45 destroyer utilised advanced sensors and systems to intercept the Kulakov in the North Sea, monitoring its journey westward through the Channel towards the island of Ushant off the French coast. A Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron, based at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, provided air support and maintained surveillance of the Russian vessel. This coordinated effort involved collaboration between three nations, including the Dutch Air Force and the French Navy. Al Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces, commented, "The Royal Navy stands ready to respond to any Russian naval activity. They conduct constant monitoring operations to safeguard Britain and our territorial waters." Commander Dan Lee, HMS Duncan’s commanding officer, emphasised the operation's significance, stating, "This operation highlights the Royal Navy’s commitment to safeguarding UK waters and working seamlessly with our NATO allies to ensure the security of our shared maritime spaces." He added, "The close coordination between UK, French and Dutch forces demonstrates the strength of our alliance and our ability to respond collectively to any activity in our region." HMS Duncan is one of two Royal Navy warships assigned to the NATO task force Standing Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1), which conducts patrols across northern European waters. Last month, UK crews had previously shadowed a Russian warship and a freighter through UK seas, although that operation was not part of a NATO command effort. Defence Minister Luke Pollard warned of an increase in Russian naval activity, stating, "Russian warships are increasingly transiting through the English Channel. The Royal Navy protects the UK 24/7 to monitor Russian movements, ensuring the security of our waters and undersea cables." This operation represents the 18th time the Type 23 frigate has been activated for such a mission in the past year, monitoring a total of 25 Russian vessels.