UK security and growth has received a boost as the UK-led
international Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) began operations in
the Indo-Pacific.
Led by the aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, CSG25 has
undertaken a joint exercise with the Indian Navy, deepening the
UK's defence relationship with a key strategic partner ahead of a
port visit to India later this year.
The deployment, known as Operation Highmast, includes ships from
Canada, Norway and Spain, and has now been joined by a New
Zealand Frigate, HMNZS Te Kaha, after entering the Indian Ocean,
having passed through the Red Sea.
The task group, which left the UK in April, previously completed
exercises in the Mediterranean.
Minister for the Armed Forces, said:
“I am delighted that our Carrier Strike Group and 4,000 Service
Personnel, are now operating in the Indo-Pacific region. Working
with our Allies and partners, to keep Britain secure at home and
strong abroad.
“This isn't just about hard power; the upcoming exercises and
port visits are about building influence and boosting trade
opportunities both for defence and other sectors of our economy
which will deliver British jobs and growth, and delivers on the
Government's Plan for Change.”
Commodore James Blackmore, Commander CSG
said:
"The deployment sends a powerful message that the UK and its
allies are committed to security and stability in the
Indo-Pacific region. It's a privilege to lead our sailors,
marines, soldiers and aircrew as we demonstrate warfighting
capability.”
Over the next few months, CSG25 will join British Army and Royal
Air Force units to participate in Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025,
the Australian-led multinational exercise involving US and many
other regional partners. This major exercise builds towards full
operational capability of the UK's carrier strike capability.
With two F-35B squadrons embarked, the RAF and Royal Navy are set
to redefine the landscape of naval air power, in a move to
warfighting readiness in support of NATO, while reinforcing
Britain's commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific
region.
Port visits to Singapore, Indonesia, Japan and the Republic of
Korea will showcase British defence capabilities through trade
demonstrations and fairs, directly supporting the Government's
Plan for Change through economic growth. A port visit to Darwin,
Australia, provides an opportunity to further develop the AUKUS
partnership between Australia, the UK and the United
States.
The Carrier Strike Group will also host the prestigious Pacific
Future Forum in Japan, bringing together defence, security and
technology leaders from across the region to discuss shared
challenges.
The deployment follows the Prime Minister's historic commitment
to increase defence spending to 2.6% of GDP, demonstrating the
Government's commitment to keep the UK secure at home and strong
abroad.
Keeping the country safe is the Government's first priority and
is the foundation of its Plan for Change. 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, supporting the
delivery of the Government's five missions.
