A serving Royal Navy sailor has appeared in court after being charged with allegedly preparing to pass sensitive British defence and intelligence information to Russia.
Able Seaman Teddy Young, 24, a warfare intelligence specialist, appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday after being charged under the National Security Act 2023.
Young is accused of retaining information obtained through his military duties and taking steps to disclose protected material to a foreign power.
The BBC understands the allegations include translating a message into Russian and attempting to identify an online platform through which information could be sent to Russia.
The alleged offences took place between 26 November 2024 and 21 May 2025.
According to a written case summary from the Crown Prosecution Service, Young used his position as a Royal Navy warfare intelligence rating to access sensitive UK defence and intelligence material.
The CPS alleged that his role gave him a high level of security clearance and access to intelligence systems, and that he carried out actions indicating preparations to provide protected information to a foreign power.
Young is charged with preparing to disclose protected information, as well as obtaining, copying, recording or retaining such material with the intention of assisting a foreign power.
During Thursday’s hearing, Young, wearing a grey police-issued sweatshirt, confirmed his name, date of birth and address in Clapham, near Bedford.
Counter Terrorism Policing said the allegations against Young are not connected to a separate investigation into suspicious activity reported near RAF Fairford. Seven men arrested in connection with that investigation have since been released on bail.
Young was arrested at his home in Bedfordshire on Tuesday and is understood to be the first serving member of the UK armed forces to be charged under the National Security Act 2023.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, described the allegations as serious and said officers had worked closely with the Ministry of Defence throughout the investigation to address any potential risks.
The Royal Navy confirmed that one of its serving members had been charged but declined to comment further because the case is now before the courts.
Judge Annabel Pilling ordered Young to remain in custody. He is due to appear at the Old Bailey on 16 October.
Goodness Anunobi
Follow us on:
