Daily Mail: Russia is preparing for a possible attack on the UK and has identified ‘legitimate targets’

Russia may be preparing new hybrid operations against the UK, and a British-Ukrainian drone manufacturing joint venture and the missile company MBDA are reportedly being considered as potential targets. This does not refer to a direct military strike on NATO territory, but rather to possible acts of sabotage, arson and other covert operations. This is reported by the British Daily Mail, citing former Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Fedorov, as well as British officials and experts.

According to Fedorov, the possibility of a hybrid attack against the UK is allegedly being discussed at the highest levels of the Russian leadership. The former Russian official claims that Moscow may be considering covert operations specifically, as a direct strike against a NATO country could trigger a collective response from the Alliance.

Fedorov also stated that the UK is viewed in Moscow as one of its main adversaries due to its support for Ukraine.

Which targets could be at risk

Among the alleged targets, the publication names Ukrspecsystems – a British-Ukrainian enterprise involved in the manufacture of drones.

Another possible target mentioned is MBDA, one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of missile systems. The company is involved in the production of the British-French Storm Shadow/SCALP missiles, which are used by Ukraine. In August, the British government also authorised MBDA to declassify information regarding the British components of the SCALP long-range missile.

Fedorov stated that MBDA could be regarded as a “legitimate target” in Moscow.

Britain is stepping up its defences against hybrid threats

The UK has been warning about Russian hybrid operations for several years. In July 2026, the British government announced an increase in hybrid threats in Europe, including physical and cyber attacks, information operations and attempts to destabilise critical infrastructure.

London also claims that the Russian military intelligence service, the GRU, is conducting sustained cyber and information operations against the UK and its allies. A report published by the British authorities states that such actions are aimed at causing real damage and supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine.

In July, the UK, together with the EU, imposed new sanctions against Russian organisations and individuals it considers to be involved in cyberattacks and other forms of hybrid activity.

According to the Daily Mail, UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting stated that London has no intention of yielding to Russian threats and will continue to support Ukraine.

British experts, however, point out a distinctive feature of hybrid attacks: proving a state’s direct involvement in sabotage or other covert operations is often more difficult than in the case of a conventional military attack. Furthermore, an excessively harsh response could create an additional risk of escalation.

The UK has previously made repeated statements regarding sabotage and cyber operations linked to Russia. The British Government has officially reported on the ongoing activity of Russian entities in cyberspace and the information sphere, as well as on the need to protect critical infrastructure.