Britain Drops Anchor in Indo-Pacific—Carrier Strike Group Signals Global Intent

Image Source: The Maritime Executive

The UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG25), led by HMS Prince of Wales, has now entered the IndoPacific region in a historic shift in Britain's international defence and trade policy. Operation Highmast, an eightmonth deployment, unites naval powers of the UK, Canada, Norway, Spain, and New Zealand, reiterating the UK's commitment to a free and secure IndoPacific.

Key Highlights:

Dual Naval Exercises: The CSG25 has recently completed a highprofile PASSEX (Passage Exercise) with the Indian Navy in the North Arabian Sea on board INS Tabar, a submarine, and a P8I surveillance aircraft. The exercise involved antisubmarine warfare, helicopter integration, and tactical manoeuvres, further strengthening UKIndia maritime relations.
Strategic Port Calls: The task force will make port calls at Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Darwin (Australia), organizing trade expos and defence showcases in a bid to improve bilateral cooperation.
AUKUS & Beyond: The deployment strengthens AUKUS partnership and sets the stage for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, a massive multinational exercise hosted by Australia.
Economic Diplomacy: Alongside hard power, the aim is to open up trade, facilitate British jobs, and foster defence exports, as outlined in the UK's "Plan for Change."
Tech & Air Power: With two F35B squadrons and cuttingedge drones onboard, the CSG25 is also a showcase of future naval air power.