The Dutch naval forces monitored two Russian vessels in the North Sea on Friday, reported Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
"Today, the Dutch naval forces observed two Russian ships in the North Sea: a submarine and a corvette," he wrote on social media platform X on Friday evening.
According to him, the Netherlands remains vigilant and is prepared to defend the North Sea.
In his opinion, active deterrence remains a necessary condition for ensuring the country's security.
As reported on the Dutch Ministry of Defense's website, the Friesland helicopter and the NH90 maritime combat helicopter were deployed to monitor the Russian vessels.
It is noted that the submarine "Novorossiysk" was traveling north from the Mediterranean Sea. The submarine passed by the so-called exclusive economic zone of the Netherlands. During its passage through this zone, it was joined by the Russian corvette "Boykiy."
The Ministry of Defense indicates that Russian units frequently transit through the specified area. There is an internationally agreed right of passage in effect. However, the Netherlands keeps an eye on such types of vessels. This is done to emphasize vigilance and gather intelligence.
It is also reported that since July 2023, the escorting of Russian ships and submarines in the North Sea has become a permanent task for the Dutch Navy.
Source: https://x.com/DefensieMin/status/1877805125995053122
https://www.defensie.nl/actueel/nieuws/2025/01/10/marine-schaduwt-russische-onderzeeboot-en-korvet-op-noordzee