William Green

🚨NEW🚨 The Royal Navy has launched its first squadron of uncrewed boats to patrol UK waters and take on Russian spy ships. The fleet of drones, controlled remotely by 180 sailors, comprises more than 20 vessels that can be armed with missiles, radar and surveillance technology. It was rushed into service at a pace service chiefs didn't believe was possible a few months ago, and will help to relieve the strain on Britain's diminished naval fleet. The 28ft-long K3 Scout drones, which have been used by Ukraine to attack Russian ships, can hit 55 knots (63mph) and have a range of around 800 miles. But they can be equipped with bigger fuel tanks to extend their range to 1,100 miles, which could enable them to sail into Russia's Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad. They are equipped using a 'plug-in-and-play' system, meaning each boat has the ability to carry a different payload. One, fitted with a radar, can sail out automatically ahead of a carrier strike group, providing the ability to spot threats sooner. Another can be armed with a battery of light missiles, capable of destroying kamikaze drones and attack helicopters. Captain Adam Ballard, deputy commander of the Royal Navy's surface flotilla, said they would increase Britain's ability to respond to Russian provocation. 'We now have a large fleet of these that I can deploy against an enemy,' he said. 'From today, we will start using these actively in all the sorts of areas where you've traditionally seen crewed ships because they are so flexible and versatile. 'I am no longer beholden on just having to deploy a frigate or destroyer. I can deploy these very discreetly and very rapidly, and that gives me a significant advantage over our enemies.' Full story: dailymail.com/news/article-1…