HMS Prince of Wales kicked off its extensive eight-month deployment from Portsmouth, marking one of its largest missions to date. The £3bn aircraft carrier’s journey will showcase the United Kingdom’s capacity to operate fast jets at sea and conduct large-scale military operations halfway across the globe. This deployment will involve up to 24 cutting-edge F-35B stealth jets as part of a multi-national flotilla of warships that will visit 40 nations spanning the Mediterranean, Middle East, south-east Asia, Japan, and Australia. Housing a capacity of 1,600 military personnel, this 65,000-tonne vessel will remain active for the next eight months.
The Carrier Strike Group (CSG) that HMS Prince of Wales is part of consists of the HMS Dauntless destroyer, HMS Richmond frigate from Plymouth, in addition to warships from multiple NATO members such as Norway and Canada. Key squadrons on board include the RAF’s 617 squadron, otherwise known as The Dambusters, and 809 Naval Air Squadron The Immortals. The commanding officer, Capt Will Blackett, emphasized the extensive practice and preparation involved in this mission, particularly the intricate embarkation of the largest air wing ever to grace the ship.
Acknowledging the recent passing of the Pope, a Royal Navy spokesperson confirmed that the ensign on the flight deck of HMS Prince of Wales was at half-mast as a gesture of respect. Defense Secretary John Healey commended the armed forces personnel involved in executing this highly complex operation, showcasing the UK’s foremost ability to deploy a significant military presence worldwide. He highlighted the Royal Navy’s role in demonstrating its remarkable capability and reinforcing British values while sending a strong deterrence message to any potential adversaries.
The mission Operation Highmast, spearheaded by Commodore James Blackmore, is equipped with not only fighter jets but also 16 helicopters, including Merlin and Wildcat models, alongside T-150 Malloy and Puma drones. With global events evolving rapidly and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, there remains a level of flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances, as highlighted by Commodore Blackmore. While there is a degree of excitement among personnel like Able Seaman James South and Able Seaman Molly Plant, there is also a sense of apprehension and curiosity as they embark on this extensive deployment with over 2,500 Royal Navy personnel, nearly 600 from the RAF, and around 900 from the British Army, all expected to return home in time for Christmas
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