A British aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, has docked in Singapore as part of a rare Indo-Pacific deployment, showcasing the UK‘s commitment to the region. The carrier strike group’s commander, Commodore James Blackmore, emphasized that the deployment demonstrates the UK’s ongoing commitment to the region, stating, “It’s about upholding a rules-based international order and recognising the importance of trade between a free and open Indo-Pacific and the European theatre.”
The HMS Prince of Wales, one of the UK Navy’s largest ships, has a flight deck large enough to fit three football pitches. During its eight-month deployment, the carrier will be supported by ships from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and Spain, among others. The deployment began with around 2,500 military personnel and will grow to over 4,500 for key exercises.
Commodore Blackmore expressed confidence in the group’s interactions with Chinese counterparts, noting that both nations have “every right to sail their ships in international sea space”.
He added, “I almost expect they’ll want to come and want to watch what we’re doing… Lots of other parties will wish to witness what we’re doing. But I do recognise it will be safe and professional. That’s the way we operate in the maritime.”
The carrier’s presence in the Indo-Pacific comes amid heightened tensions and uncertainty in the region, particularly with regards to Washington’s unpredictability. The UK’s AUKUS pact with Australia and the US is also under scrutiny. When asked about the pact’s importance to the mission, Commodore Blackmore declined to comment, citing that it’s “being entirely dealt with at a government to government level”.
The HMS Prince of Wales will participate in several multinational exercises, including an Australia-led exercise with the US and other regional militaries. It will also support Japanese authorities in developing their F-35 capability and take part in the annual warfighting exercise of the Five Power Defence Arrangements.
Key Highlights of the Deployment
- Participating Countries: The deployment involves ships and personnel from the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and Spain.
- Exercises and Operations: The carrier strike group will participate in several multinational exercises, including an Australia-led exercise and the annual warfighting exercise of the Five Power Defence Arrangements.
- Aircraft and Ships: The HMS Prince of Wales will operate with 24 F-35B Lightning II jets, Merlin and Wildcat helicopters, and other supporting vessels, including the Type 45 destroyer HMS Dauntless and the Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond.
- Regional Significance: The deployment demonstrates the UK’s commitment to upholding a rules-based international order and recognising the importance of trade in the Indo-Pacific region.