The UK’s flagship aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales has set sail for the Arctic and North Atlantic to bolster the security of NATO's northern flank.
Accompanied by Type-45 destroyer HMS Dauntless, the aircraft carrier is embarked with an air group comprising fifth-generation F-35 Jets, Merlin Mk4 Commando and Mk2 Anti-submarine helicopters, Wildcat helicopters and Malloy drones.
Over 1,200 British personnel are deployed as part of the Carrier Strike Group, working closely with allies including Norway, Denmark and Germany on operations designed to test and strengthen NATO interoperability.
“The deployment of the HMS Prince of Wales and her air wing to the High North and the North Atlantic, operating under NATO leadership, is a clear demonstration of the UK’s commitment to the Alliance and contribution to the enduring security and stability of the North Atlantic," Minister for the Armed Forces, Louise Sandher-Jones, said.
As part of the deployment, HMS Prince of Wales will host gatherings of military and political leaders in Oslo focused on the collective security of Northern Europe. The Atlantic Future Forum and the International Sea Power Conference will bring together defense leaders, industry and policymakers to discuss the future of Euro-Atlantic security in an increasingly dangerous world.
HMS Prince of Wales will be joined by HMS Dauntless and the staff of the UK Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Commodore Richard Hewitt.
The focus of phase 2 of Operation Firecrest is maintaining operational readiness, strengthening interoperability and ensuring the Carrier Strike Group is prepared to respond to the challenges of an increasingly important region.
The UK is the only European NATO member to commit its nuclear deterrent in full to the Alliance and as confirmed in the Defence Investment Plan, will join NATO’s Dual Capable Aircraft nuclear mission with F-35A jets.
