On November 19, 2025, the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Russian reconnaissance ship Yantar directed laser beams at RAF pilots conducting missions off Scotland, marking a concerning escalation in Russian tactics within UK territorial waters. Defence Secretary John Healey responded by revising Royal Navy rules of engagement to enable more assertive monitoring of the vessel, emphasizing the UK’s readiness to counter further provocations. While Moscow denied the allegations, analysts noted that such actions represent a significant development in “grey-zone” warfare, heightening tensions in the North Atlantic. Indian observers have voiced the importance of vigilance against similar espionage activities, given the strategic significance of undersea communications infrastructure for both NATO and Indian interests.