UK Deploys Carrier Strike Group to Indo-Pacific Region
(Pic Source: X post from @HMSPELS)
The Royal Navy’s Aircraft Carrier HMS Prince of Wales is set to embark on a major multinational deployment to the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions. The aircraft carrier will depart from Portsmouth on April 22, accompanied by a fleet of warships, supply ships, and aircraft.
The group will sail through the Indian Ocean, conducting exercises and port visits with partners including the US, India, Singapore, and Malaysia. The eight-month deployment, named Operation Highmast, will involve around 4,000 personnel from the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, and British Army.
The Royal Navy will contribute 2,500 personnel, including those on board HMS Prince of Wales and other supporting ships. The Royal Air Force will contribute 592 personnel, with up to 24 F-35B Lightning fighter jets embarked on the aircraft carrier. The British Army will contribute 900 personnel, who will join the deployment for exercises.
As per UK Government statement, the deployment showcases the UK’s commitment to global security, trade, and diplomacy. Defence Secretary John Healey MP emphasized the importance of this operation, stating that it demonstrates the UK’s ability to deploy a major military force and promote British interests abroad.
“As one of only a handful of countries in the world able to lead a deployment of this scale, the Royal Navy is once again demonstrating its formidable capability while protecting British values and sending a powerful message of deterrence to any adversary.” said John Healey.
The group will join Exercise Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean to test high-end maritime strike capabilities. The group will also participate in Exercise Talisman Sabre near Australia, alongside 19 partner nations. Port visits will be conducted in Singapore, Japan, and India, providing opportunities for trade events and diplomatic engagements.
UK Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, said:
“Through this deployment of our Carrier Strike Group and 4,000 Service Personnel, we will stand firm with our allies against those who challenge the international order. Reminding the world that the security of the Euro Atlantic and Indo-Pacific are fundamentally indivisible.”
The deployment follows the UK’s Prime Minister’s commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of country GDP. As per UK government, the strength, capability, and global reach of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, demonstrated through Operation Highmast, is critical to the security and stability of the UK.
