Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales Begins Next Stage of Global Mission in Indian Ocean

The Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales has entered the Indian Ocean, marking the beginning of the next stage of its global military mission after a safe transit through the Suez Canal and Red Sea.

Accompanied by its full task force of warships and aircraft, collectively known as the UK Carrier Strike Group, the carrier sailed through the Suez Canal with British, Norwegian, Spanish, and Canadian warships by its side.

This historic voyage marks the first time HMS Prince of Wales has ventured this far east, with its flight deck carrying F-35B stealth fighter jets, Merlin, and Wildcat helicopters throughout the journey.

The Carrier Strike Group’s transit through the Suez Canal presented breathtaking views of Egypt’s desert landscape, passing by notable landmarks such as the Canal Memorial and the iconic Al Salam Bridge.

Following the successful crossing, the carrier has completed the initial phase of its eight-month-long mission, which included exercises and operations in the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean regions.

A highlight of this phase was a joint exercise with the Italian Carrier Strike Group, bringing together a formidable allied fleet in the Ionian Sea.

Dubbed Operation Highmast, the ongoing deployment led by HMS Prince of Wales involves military forces from multiple countries and will navigate through the western Pacific Rim after the Mediterranean and Middle East.

The mission aims to reinforce the UK’s commitment to security in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions, enhance cooperation with allies, and showcase British trade and industrial capabilities globally.

With over 4,500 military personnel expected to be involved, including Royal Navy sailors, Royal Marines, Royal Air Force personnel, and soldiers, the UK is set for an extensive and impactful presence on the international stage.

Reference: Royal Navy