Atlantic Bastion combines AI systems with warships to counter increased surveillance

The UK government has announced enhanced protection for undersea cables using autonomous vessels alongside crewed warships and aircraft, responding to escalating Russian surveillance activities.

The Ministry of Defence's Atlantic Bastion programme directly addresses increased activity by Russian submarines and surface vessels, including the spy ship Yantar, which Defence Secretary John Healey said had been mapping UK undersea infrastructure.

"Our pioneering Atlantic Bastion programme is a blueprint for the future of the Royal Navy," Healey said in a published statement today. "It combines the latest autonomous and AI technologies with world-class warships and aircraft to create a highly advanced hybrid fighting force to detect, deter and defeat those who threaten us."

In comments released in advance of a conference speech, First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins said the UK's recent strategic defense review highlighted the need for the country to address maritime vulnerabilities.

"This begins with Atlantic Bastion ...