Russian warships and subs reportedly tracked a British submarine in the eastern Mediterranean Sea in the days before the latest strikes in Syria.

Russian and NATO submarines have come into increasing contact in the waters around Europe in recent years.

A British Astute-class attack submarine was closely pursued by Russian subs and warships in the days leading up to the latest US-led strikes in Syria, according to The Times of London, citing military sources.

The days-long encounter reportedly played out during the second week of April, as Prime Minister Theresa May was deciding whether to join the strikes on targets in Syria. May reportedly ordered British subs to move within missile range of Syria in preparation for those strikes.

A UK Astute-class sub in the area was hunted by at least one but possibly two Russian submarines nicknamed “the Black Hole,” The Times said, referring to the Russian navy’s Improved Kilo-class diesel-electric subs.

The Astute…

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