HMS Prince of Wales Red Sea Transit

HMS Prince of Wales Concludes Indo-Pacific Deployment, Enters Red Sea

HMS Prince of Wales, the UK's flagship, has concluded its eight-month Operation Highmast in the Indo-Pacific and is now transiting through the Red Sea. The carrier, accompanied by a US destroyer, entered the Red Sea on October 27, marking the end of its deployment that saw it safeguard vital shipping lanes and conduct multinational exercises.

During its deployment, HMS Prince of Wales led a multinational carrier strike group comprising destroyer HMS Dauntless, frigate HMS Richmond, support ship RFA Tidespring, and partner vessels like Norway's Roald Amundsen. The group conducted complex joint exercises with Japan's Air Self-Defense Force and South Korea's Navy in the Sea of Japan, demonstrating the UK's commitment to regional security and stability.

The carrier's return also highlights the UK's ongoing efforts to protect maritime traffic in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, where Yemen's Houthi movement continues to launch attacks. Around 4,500 British personnel, including sailors, Royal Marines, soldiers, and RAF aircrew, supported the deployment. The multinational effort reflects the UK's collaboration with international partners to maintain safe shipping lanes, a vital lifeline for global trade.

HMS Prince of Wales, accompanied by a US destroyer, is now safely transiting through the Red Sea. Its successful deployment in the Indo-Pacific underscores the UK's commitment to global maritime security and its ability to work with international partners to safeguard vital shipping lanes.