UK unveils 10-nation drone and warship pact to counter rising Russian naval activity
The UK has launched a new maritime defense framework with nine allies to counter a 41% rise in Russian naval activity around British waters. The initiative, dubbed the 'beer-drinking nations' alliance, integrates autonomous sea drones with warships to offset a projected drop in UK frigate numbers. London is investing £1.5 billion in sea drones and £90 million in underwater sensors to monitor the North Atlantic and protect critical infrastructure. The plan aims to create a unified surveillance network, allowing allied vessels to share command and control, while addressing concerns over Russian spy ships mapping undersea cables.