The Defence Secretary Interview: The Covert Russian Submarine Operation

April 9, 2026 – 28 minutes. This episode is available for over a year.

During a recent interview, the UK Defence Secretary disclosed that the British military has taken action against a sustained Russian submarine operation targeting undersea cables and oil pipelines off the coast of the UK. The operation, which lasted a month, prompted the deployment of a warship and aircraft as part of the response. The Defence Secretary emphasized that Russian vessels were under continuous surveillance throughout the period.

Strategic Importance of Cables

Adam Fleming, the presenter, questioned the significance of the cables. The Defence Secretary explained that these cables are vital for global communications and energy networks, making them a key strategic asset. He also addressed concerns about potential damage to UK infrastructure, stating there is “no evidence” of any harm occurring in the Atlantic region.

“The cables are essential for maintaining international connectivity and supporting critical infrastructure. We have no proof that any damage was inflicted during the operation.”

When asked whether the UK is equipped to prevent such activities in the future, the Defence Secretary affirmed the country’s capability to respond swiftly, though he acknowledged the ongoing threat posed by Russian naval strategies.

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Production Credits

The presenter was Adam Fleming. The episode was made by Jack Maclaren, with social media production handled by Joe Wilkinson. Technical support came from Ben Andrews. Chris Gray served as the assistant editor, and Sam Bonham was the senior news editor.