The bases in Gibraltar are huge strategic importance to the UK and Europe. The Dockyard and Airfield are also very important, he said during his speech at Gibraltar Day in London on 31/10/22. He went on to tally how many ships have visited Gibraltar and says it will be a default stop from now on. Heappey does mention Russian submarines.
UK Min for the Armed Forces James Heappey - Gibraltar Day in London
James Heappey re-appointed as Armed Forces Minister under Sunak. Mr Heappey said: “I am hugely honoured to have been asked by the Prime Minister to remain in post as Minister of State for the Armed Forces, with the opportunity to continue working closely with my Ukranian counterpart to ensure the war in his country ends on Ukrainian terms. https://www.somersetcountygazette.co.uk/news/23090372.james-heappey-re-appointed-armed-forces-minister-sunak/