A Russian research vessel - described by a naval news outlet as a 'spy ship' - has been spotted in the Irish Sea. 

The research and intelligence vessel, Yantar, was spotted 'loitering over underwater infrastructure in the Irish Sea off the Isle of Man' on November 14, according to the Navy Lookout on X. 

It is being monitored by a P-8A aircraft. 

The monitoring of the intelligence vessel comes after it was spotted passing through the English Channel. 

The Royal Navy shadowed Russian military vessels passing through the English Channel over the past week.

HMS Iron Duke and tanker RFA Tideforce shadowed three Russian vessels, which were led by the new frigate Admiral Golovko.

The Golovko was accompanied by Yantar and supporting tanker Vyazma.

All three had been tracked by the Norwegian Navy before British forces took over.

Luke Pollard, Minister for the Armed Forces, said: “Our adversaries should be in no doubt of our steadfast determination and formidable ability to protect the UK."