The United Kingdom on Monday unveiled early work on a new undersea-warfare initiative known as Atlantic Bastion, according to a press release from the UK Ministry of Defence. Officials say the programme is designed to counter growing Russian submarine activity and protect critical undersea infrastructure across the North Atlantic.
Defence Secretary John Healey announced the effort during a visit to HM Naval Base Portsmouth, saying millions of pounds have already been invested in testing advanced anti-submarine sensors, autonomous vessels and AI-driven detection systems.
The MoD said Atlantic Bastion will blend autonomous underwater and surface platforms with Royal Navy warships, patrol aircraft and digital networks — creating a hybrid force able to find, track and, if necessary, respond to hostile submarines over wide ocean areas.
The programme responds to increased Russian underwater operations, including activity by the spy ship Yantar near UK waters. UK Defence Intelligence has warned that Russia is modernising its fleet to target undersea cables and pipelines.
According to the press release, £14 million in combined government and industry seed investment has already been committed this year, with 26 firms submitting proposals for new anti-submarine technology. Twenty companies are already demonstrating prototypes, with private funding matching public contributions at a roughly 4:1 ratio.
Initial systems are expected to enter the water next year as the government accelerates development under the Strategic Defence Review.
At the International Sea Power Conference in London, First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins is expected to call Atlantic Bastion a major step in transforming the Royal Navy for an era of heightened undersea competition.
Defence companies including Anduril UK, BAE Systems, and Helsing said they are prepared to support the initiative with autonomous platforms, AI-enabled control systems and new undersea surveillance tools.
The MoD says Atlantic Bastion strengthens the UK’s leadership in the global shift toward hybrid navies — a market it values at £350 billion — and could create thousands of skilled jobs while reinforcing NATO’s undersea security.
