Russian attack submarines have been spotted operating in the waters around the Irish Sea on two separate occasions since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, according to Bloomberg News. The deployments of these Kilo-class submarines took place approximately 18 months ago and more recently, exceeding the usual movements seen by British officials.
US officials were also aware of these submarine activities, indicating a heightened level of Russian military presence in the region. Despite these reports, government officials from Russia, Ireland, the UK, and the US have remained silent on the matter.
The Kilo-class submarine is known for its capabilities in firing Russia’s Kalibr cruise missiles, torpedoes, and naval mines. Russia’s navy had previously announced plans for extensive exercises across all its fleets, showcasing its military strength.
Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney expressed disapproval of these activities, emphasizing that such actions were unwelcome in the region.