UK's gaps in Arctic defence leave it open to Russian attacks, committee warns

• The UK has glaring gaps in its ability to defend the Arctic region, leaving it vulnerable to potential Russian attacks, a report by the Commons Defence Committee has warned. • The MPs said a shortage of Royal Navy warships and submarines leaves critical infrastructure in the High North, including undersea cables and energy supplies, exposed. • In a conflict, the report adds, Russia could threaten the UK's population, civilian and military infrastructure and vital supply routes across the Atlantic from the US. • The Ministry of Defence has responded to the report.