In a rousing display of British strength, unity, and global leadership, HMS Prince of Wales set sail from Portsmouth this afternoon, leading the UK’s second Carrier Strike Group deployment to the Indo-Pacific — a mission that will span over 220 days and 20,000 miles, reaffirming Britain’s place on the world stage.
Crowds lined the historic naval city’s waterfront to wave off the Royal Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier, accompanied by cheers, flag-waving families, and a palpable sense of pride.
Friends and loved ones stood shoulder-to-shoulder, bidding farewell to the 2,500 military personnel beginning the monumental eight-month journey.
As one of the world’s most powerful maritime forces, the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) will demonstrate strength, deterrence, and deepened ties with allies throughout the Mediterranean, Middle East, South-East Asia, Japan, and Australia.
“I am delighted to lead the UK Carrier Strike Group encompassing Sailors, Marines, Soldiers and Aviators from across the UK and allied armed forces,” said Commodore James Blackmore, who commands the mission.
“Working closely with partners from across the globe, Operation Highmast will demonstrate credible deterrence and our support to NATO and the rules-based international order.
This will reaffirm that the UK is secure at home and strong abroad and reinforce the UK’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific.”
A Global Mission with a British Heart
At the heart of this mission is not only security, but economic opportunity. With UK trade in the Indo-Pacific region valued at £286 billion — nearly 20% of total UK trade — the Carrier Strike Group is not just a shield but a gateway, providing unique opportunities for British companies to take part in trade events during key port visits.
The deployment follows in the wake of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s 2021 mission and features a formidable fleet including:
- HMS Dauntless (Type 45 Destroyer)
- HMS Richmond (Royal Navy Frigate)
- RFA Tidespring (Royal Fleet Auxiliary Tanker)
- HNoMS Maud and Roald Amundsen (Norwegian ships)
- HMCS Ville de Québec (Royal Canadian Navy frigate)
Canadian Commander Peter MacNeil praised the joint effort:
“The crew has worked incredibly hard to get the ship ready and to represent Canada and the Royal Canadian Navy globally – with some of the absolute finest people Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces have to offer.”
Group Captain John Butcher, leading the UK Lightning Force, highlighted the cutting-edge deployment of two squadrons of F-35B Lightning II aircraft:
“This is an important milestone – the deployment of two squadrons to different locations in the world on land or at sea to deliver air effect. Fifth generation air power is important for us to be able to control the air in a contested environment.”
Naval Might, National Pride
The CSG will carry out joint exercises with allies in NATO and the Indo-Pacific, building defence cooperation while showcasing Britain’s naval prowess.
Captain Will Blackett, Commanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales, paid tribute to the tireless preparation and the families left behind:
“I am incredibly proud of my team and the broader support enterprise, who have worked tirelessly to prepare for this historic deployment.
I would also like to recognise our families and friends, who have endured the hard work with us, and now face the challenges of separation. We will deliver this mission together and look forward to reuniting when the job is done.”
The Carrier Strike Group’s first operation will be with NATO off the coast of France before continuing into the Mediterranean and eventually the Indo-Pacific via the Red Sea — a route rich in geopolitical significance.
As the sun glinted off the deck of HMS Prince of Wales this afternoon, it wasn’t just steel and sail that left Portsmouth — it was the embodiment of a proud, confident Britain, once again charting its course on the global stage.
Rule Britannia — and safe sailing to our finest.
