While the UK is struggling with coronavirus, it is observing Russia, which is increasing its activity in the seas. The Royal Navy increased its operability against the growing effectiveness of Russia in the English Channel and the North Sea. Type 23 frigates HMS Kent, HMS Sutherland, HMS Argyll and HMS Richmond joined Offshore Patrol Vessels HMS Tyne and HMS Mersey along with RFA Tideforce, RFA Tidespring and HMS Echo for the large-scale operation with support from NATO allies.

The HMS Tyne ship stationed in Portsmouth spent more than a week on the English Channel and closely followed Russian ships as they crossed the southern coast.

During the operations, three Steregushchiy-class corvettes, two Ropucha-class ships and two Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates, as well as supporting platforms and tugs, were observed. During the first week of March, Russian naval patrol aircraft on the GIUK (Greenland, Iceland and the United Kingdom) Line engaged in training activities. Russian aerial platforms were accompanied by Norwegian F-35A Lightning II and the Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4.