British submariners have reported that they are experiencing the highest number of “contacts” with Russian submarines since 1987.
Recently, a specially upgraded Russian Akula class submarine has reportedly been caught trying to record the acoustic signature made by the Vanguard submarines that carry Trident nuclear missiles, according to senior Navy officers in a report at the UK’s Telegraph.
The concern is that if the Russians are able to obtain a recording of the unique noise of the boat’s propellers it would have serious implications for Britain’s nuclear deterrent.
Very odd. One would think that the Russians would already have the acoustic identification profiles of all of Britain’s 4 Vanguard-class submarines. What is the public statement about other than to let the Russians know that Britain knows that its subs are being followed too closely? And like a British policeman, it is asking them to ‘Please stand back’?
The mover behind all of this seems to be that Britain wants the costs saving of lowing its number of nuclear missiles, and even the number of its Vanguard submarines, which are its main nuclear deterrent. If Russia would just back off from too close a snooping, then it would be easier for some in the British government to persuade politicians and military personnel who oppose a weaker military position, that the threat is less, and so to vote in favor of less weapons and delivery systems. Russia is also pressuring Britain in the air with its bombers going too close to Britain’s border. There will probably be some form of request by Britain for Russia to back off there also. A safe feeling public is always happy to vote for downgrading expensive ‘unnecessary’ defenses. Russia should be happy to agree and comply. It also uses newspapers for concealed messages. The fish being chipped away in the Telegraph newspaper are rather big game. Does the paper know it is being used, being stained by the vinegar of deceit? Probably.