The Royal Navy has announced the beginning of the most powerful deployment of British air power at sea this century, as HMS Prince of Wales sets course for the Indo-Pacific.
The ship is leading the UK Carrier Strike Group, carrying the largest fifth-generation carrier air wing ever assembled.
Since departing Portsmouth, HMS Prince of Wales has embarked 18 F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters from 809 Naval Air Squadron and 617 Squadron RAF.
Another six F-35Bs are expected to join the ship during the deployment, bringing the total to 24. This marks the largest fifth-generation air wing ever operated from a single carrier.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who visited HMS Prince of Wales to observe the formation of the air group, emphasised the significance of the deployment, stating that as the carrier heads out on one of the largest deployments this century, it sends a clear message of strength to adversaries and a message of unity and purpose to allies. He added that the UK’s commitment to global stability is unwavering, and the country will always stand with its allies.
In addition to the F-35Bs, the carrier’s air group includes 16 Merlin helicopters (Mk2 anti-submarine and Mk4 troop-carrying variants), Wildcat maritime helicopters, and Malloy and Puma drones, which will carry out logistics, reconnaissance, and surveillance missions.
The full air group will be operated, flown, and maintained by approximately 750 personnel, under the leadership of Captain Colin McGannity, Commander Air Group.
Captain McGannity expressed pride in the effort required to assemble the air group, stating that it has been a huge endeavour, with contributions from squadrons, air bases, supporting staff, and industry. He said leading this air group is a huge privilege, and he’s excited to showcase what the team can do.
The Royal Navy highlighted that Operation Highmast aims to deliver a strong message that the UK and its allies are ready to protect vital trade routes in the Indo-Pacific and to deter those who seek to undermine global security.