Britain may be on the verge of losing its longstanding edge in the Atlantic for the first time since the end of World War II, falling behind Russia. This warning came from the head of the British Royal Navy, First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Gwyn Jenkins.

Speaking at a conference in London, Jenkins said the advantage the UK maintained in the Atlantic after both World War II and the Cold War is now at risk. He stressed that Britain is still holding its position, but only by a narrow margin. According to him, if the country does not act faster and with greater determination, this remaining advantage could vanish.

Jenkins drew attention to Russia’s expanding naval capabilities, stating that Moscow is investing «billions» into strengthening its fleet, with particular focus on the Northern Fleet. Against this backdrop, London is trying to adapt by focusing on emerging technologies. Among them are autonomous underwater gliders designed to detect Russian submarines, as well as the «Atlantic Bastion» — a network of autonomous sensors expected to serve as the Royal Navy’s «eyes and ears.»

He also acknowledged that without accelerated modernization and strong NATO backing, the UK will struggle to keep pace with the challenges posed by external threats.

The Atlantic Bastion project was officially introduced on 8 December by UK Defence Secretary John Healey. British authorities launched the development of this technology amid what they describe as growing activity of the Russian submarine fleet.