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Operation Highmast – Why it matters

F-35B Jet lands back onboard HMS Prince of Wales Flight Deck as part of Exercise Med Strike, with the UK Carrier Strike Group. This was taken on 5th May 2025.

As the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) continues its journey to the Indo-Pacific region on Operation Highmast, the significance of this mission and its implications for global security are paramount. This operation is critical for ensuring a secure future for all NATO members and like-minded global allies. Through collaboration and innovation, the UK and its partners are poised to address future challenges with confidence and resilience.

Operation Highmast and CSG25 represent a comprehensive military operation involving multinational exercises throughout 2025. It aims to improve the interoperability and preparedness of NATO forces and global allies. Led by HMS The Prince Of Wales , the Royal Navy's flagship aircraft carrier, its primary objective is to illustrate and reinforce the strategic capabilities of the United Kingdom and its allies, ensuring preparedness to address a diverse range of global threats.

UK involvement

The Italian carrier strike group – centred on their flagship ITS Cavour – combined with that of Portsmouth-based HMS Prince of Wales as a force of some 21 warships, three submarines, 41 fast jets, 19 helicopters, ten patrol aircraft and 8,000 personnel operated in the Ionian Sea. F-35B Lightning jets from both nations carried out flying operations day and night in the Mediterranean skies, while warships and submarines carried out essential training together, including anti-submarine warfare tactics in waters between Taranto and Sicily.

As the lead nation in this operation, the United Kingdom plays a pivotal role in the planning, coordination, and execution of all activities, movements, and exercises. The UK's Carrier Strike Group, with HMS Prince of Wales at its centre, serves as a significant maritime force capable of projecting power and influence on a global scale. This deployment underscores the United Kingdom's advanced military technology, particularly the F-35B Lightning, which are essential components of the carrier's air wing.

The UK's leadership in CSG25 consolidates its military capabilities and reflects its steadfast commitment to the principles of collective defence within NATO. By undertaking such a prominent role, the United Kingdom reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding the security of the NATO alliance and our allies across the world.

Italian -F35B jet fly onto HMS Prince of Wales from ITS Cavour as part of Exercise Med Strike. This was taken on 7th May 2025.

Enhancing Global Alliances

This operation strengthens NATO bonds and global alliances through interoperability and collaboration. Multiple countries contribute their unique skills, enhancing overall effectiveness and unity. The UK defence gains crucial experience and insights into allied tactics and operations, ensuring seamless coordination in real-world scenarios requiring swift responses.

Furthermore, Op Highmast includes partner nations outside NATO with shared security interests, enhancing global stability and security. These nations' diverse perspectives and capabilities enrich the exercise, highlighting the importance of strong international relationships. As global security challenges grow, a united response is essential.