A Russian Tu-142 maritime patrol aircraft reportedly dropped around 10 sonobuoys in close proximity to HMS Prince of Wales during a close approach. Using sonobuoy drops as a harassment/signaling or opportunistic ASW-probing tactic near a carrier group is described as relatively uncommon in recent years, making it a noteworthy tactical behavior to track.
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tacticside: russiafirst seen 2026-07-02
Russian Tu-142 drops sonobuoys close to UK carrier strike group
SOURCES
- The War Zone · https://www.twz.com/sea/russian-tu-142-bear-drops-sonobuoys-during-close-encounter-with-british-carrierRussian Tu-142 Bear Drops Sonobuoys During Close Encounter With British Carrier