Full Breakdown
HMS Prince of Wales Leads Operation Highmast in Mediterranean
11/14/2025, 9:56:59 PM
Overview of Operation Highmast
The Royal Navy's flagship aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales (R09), is currently leading the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) in Operation Highmast, a UK-led multinational deployment aimed at enhancing NATO interoperability and preparedness. The operation commenced on April 22, 2025, and includes participation from 13 nations, such as Australia, France, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States. The Mediterranean phase, which began with a port visit to Souda Bay, Crete, on November 1, 2025, marks the concluding segment of this extensive deployment.
Key Objectives and Achievements
Commodore James Blackmore, commanding officer of the CSG, outlined the operation's three main objectives: restoring carrier strike capacity, demonstrating commitment to NATO, and reaffirming support for partners in the Indo-Pacific. Notable milestones during the deployment include HMS Prince of Wales becoming the first non-U.S. aircraft carrier to participate in the Australia-hosted Exercise Talisman Sabre and conducting joint maritime exercises with Indian Carrier Strike Groups for the first time in history.
Composition and Capabilities of the Carrier Strike Group
The CSG consists of HMS Prince of Wales, destroyer HMS Dauntless (D33), frigate HMS Richmond (F239), and replenishment tanker RFA Tideforce (A139), along with allied vessels from Italy, Norway, and Spain. The carrier is equipped to operate Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft, with a capacity for up to 72 aircraft, including 36 F-35B Lightning II fighters. During the recent NATO exercise Falcon Strike, the number of F-35Bs on board increased from 18 to 24, a significant milestone for achieving Full Operational Capability certification.
Official Statements and Responses
Commodore Blackmore emphasized the importance of Souda Bay for logistical support, stating, "Without it, I am absolutely convinced, we would not have been able to achieve everything we have accomplished in the Pacific." UK Ambassador to Greece, Matthew Lodge, reiterated the commitment to working with NATO partners, highlighting the strategic significance of the Mediterranean region.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite the operation's successes, there are concerns regarding the Royal Navy's logistical capabilities. The absence of solid support ships has necessitated reliance on allied vessels for logistical support. Commodore Blackmore acknowledged this limitation, confirming that the UK intends to commission new support vessels in the coming years. Additionally, the HMS Prince of Wales currently lacks advanced defensive systems, relying primarily on Phalanx CIWS and heavy machine guns.
What's Next for the Carrier Strike Group
As Operation Highmast nears its conclusion, the CSG is set to conduct joint exercises with the Italian Navy before returning to its home base in Portsmouth in December 2025. The operation has covered over 40,000 nautical miles and engaged with 40 nations, reinforcing the UK's position as a leading European power capable of delivering advanced carrier strike capabilities.
Conclusion
Operation Highmast has showcased the Royal Navy's modern capabilities and commitment to NATO, while also highlighting the challenges faced by the UK in maintaining a robust maritime presence. The deployment has reaffirmed the UK's strategic partnerships and its role in ensuring security in both the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions.
