NEWS STORY : HMS Prince of Wales Prepares for Eight-Month Multinational Deployment
STORY
The Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, is finalising preparations for an extensive eight-month deployment, underscoring the United Kingdom’s dedication to reinforcing security and fostering trade relations in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions. Scheduled to depart from Portsmouth on April 22, 2025, the carrier will lead Operation Highmast, a mission involving joint exercises and port visits with international partners.
Deployment Overview
Operation Highmast will encompass a diverse fleet, including warships, supply vessels, and aircraft, assembling off the coast of Cornwall before proceeding to the Mediterranean. The deployment aims to enhance European security through collaborative exercises. Subsequently, the task force will transit the Indian Ocean, engaging with nations such as the United States, India, Singapore, and Malaysia. In total, approximately 4,000 British personnel will participate, comprising around 2,500 from the Royal Navy, 900 from the British Army, and 592 from the Royal Air Force.
Strategic Significance
The Indo-Pacific region holds substantial economic importance for the UK, with trade amounting to £286 billion in goods and services over the 12 months leading up to September 2024, representing 17% of the UK’s total trade during that period. This deployment offers a platform for UK companies to engage in trade events during scheduled port visits, aiming to bolster economic ties and promote British industry.
Official Statements
Defence Secretary John Healey expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces personnel involved, highlighting the operation’s complexity and the UK’s capability to project significant military presence globally. He emphasised the opportunity to collaborate closely with international partners and allies.
Background and Context
This deployment follows previous initiatives aimed at enhancing the UK’s presence in the Indo-Pacific. Notably, in May 2021, HMS Queen Elizabeth led a seven-month global deployment, engaging with over 40 countries and participating in various exercises to strengthen international partnerships.
The current mission aligns with the UK’s broader strategy to address emerging security challenges and support regional stability. In October 2024, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to deploy the Royal Navy to the Pacific to counteract increasing threats and to protect the region’s prosperity and security.
