HMS St Albans has shadowed a Russian warship which was sailing near to British waters.
The Royal Navy frigate was out at sea over Christmas to keep an eye on the Admiral Gorshkov in the North Sea.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “I will not hesitate in defending our waters or tolerate any form of aggression.
“Britain will never be intimidated when it comes to protecting our country, our people, and our national interests.”
HMS St Albans escorted a Russian carrier group through the Channel in January.
The type-23 frigate, dubbed ‘The Saint’ by her company, has strong ties to the city.
On St Albans Day in June, district mayor Mohammad Iqbal Zia was invited aboard for an awards ceremony.
Ship representatives regularly attend local ceremonies and parades, and the ship’s company was granted the Freedom of the City of St Albans in 2004.
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