Key facts
- UK ministers will brief defence companies and critical national infrastructure providers on Russian threats.
- Security Minister Dan Jarvis will chair a briefing for CNI providers, and Armed Forces Minister Louise Sandher-Jones will brief defence firms.
- The government stated Russia poses an enduring and significant threat through tactics like cyberattacks, sabotage, and disinformation.
- A British man was charged under the National Security Act for allegedly preparing an act of sabotage.
- Recent Russian submarine activity near the UK was monitored by British forces in partnership with Norway and other allies.
British ministers are set to brief defence companies and providers of critical national infrastructure on the escalating threats posed by Russia, including potential sabotage and cyberattacks. The government has emphasized that Russia represents a significant and ongoing danger to the UK and its global interests.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis will lead a session for industry bodies representing critical national infrastructure (CNI) providers, while Armed Forces Minister Louise Sandher-Jones will meet with representatives from defence firms. These briefings aim to enhance preparedness by sharing intelligence on Russian tactics, which include cyberattacks, sabotage, and disinformation campaigns designed to disrupt essential services and weaken trust.
These sessions follow similar briefings held earlier this year for university leaders and political parties concerning foreign interference. The government also highlighted ongoing support for defence firms and CNI providers, including specialist policing, cyber expertise from the National Cyber Security Centre, and tailored security advice.
Recent events underscore the heightened concerns. Just this month, a British man was charged under the National Security Act for allegedly preparing an act of sabotage and receiving instructions linked to Russia's GRU Volunteer Corps. Additionally, the Defence Secretary revealed details of a recent military operation where UK forces, alongside allies, monitored Russian submarines and specialized vessels operating north of the UK, aimed at protecting critical undersea infrastructure.