Russian warship loaded with 7,000mph hypersonic missiles menacingly sails through UK waters - Royal Navy on alert

A Russian warship loaded with 7,000mph hypersonic missiles is sailing through UK waters as the Royal Navy monitors its movements.

The Royal Navy said HMS Portland, a Type 23 frigate, is monitoring the Russian guided missile frigate Admiral Gorshkov and accompanying tanker Kama as they sail in international waters near the UK.

A Russian warship loaded with 7,000mph hypersonic missiles is sailing through UK waters as the Royal Navy monitors its movements.
The Royal Navy

Admiral Gorshkov weighs 5,400 tons and is 442ft long, and is currently carrying Vladimir Putin’s “super weapon” zircon missiles.

The missiles have a 625 miles range and are considered one of the world’s most deadly weapons.

There are fears that the ship may be heading towards China for joint drills.

HMS Portland’s commanding officer Commander Ed Moss-Ward said: “Escorting warships in UK territorial waters and the adjacent sea areas is routine activity for the Royal Navy.

“By maintaining a visible and persistent presence, the Royal Navy ensures compliance with maritime law and deters malign activity to protect our nation’s interests.

“Escorting the Russian task group alongside forces from our NATO allies has demonstrated the UK’s commitment to the alliance and to maintaining maritime security.”

HMS Portland joined the Norwegian Coast Guard vessel Bergen, as the Russian ships moved south through the Norwegian Sea, the Royal Navy said.

Putin joined a video call to mark the ship's voyage.
SPUTNIK

Marking the start of its journey, Vladimir Putin hailed the ship’s power.

The Russian President said: “The frigate Admiral Gorshkov is embarking on a long sea voyage.

It is tracking and reporting on the movements of the Russian ships through the North Sea.

“There is nothing unusual here: it is commonplace, but this time the ship is equipped with the latest hypersonic rocket system Zircon, which has no match.

"It is a hypersonic sea-based system - [and the vessel has other] latest-generation weapons…

“As I said, it has no equivalent in any country in the world.

“I am sure that such a powerful weapon will allow us to reliably protect Russia from potential external threats and help ensure our country's national interests.”