Global journey of the UK Carrier Strike Group

The Royal Navy’s UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG) completed an eight-month global deployment under Operation Highmast, marking a major step toward full operational capability.

The mission began in the UK and covered the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Red Sea, Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions.

The strike group participated in multiple exercises with allies to strengthen cooperation, enhance understanding and promote maritime stability.

The deployment demonstrated Britain’s global reach and commitment to upholding the rules-based international order.

Each stage emphasized the shared belief among partner nations that freedom of navigation ensures peace, security and economic prosperity.

The strike group's presence in key waterways underscored the importance of collaboration and interoperability among like-minded naval forces.

Discipline and resilience of the Royal Navy

The success of Operation Highmast reflects the discipline and resilience of the Royal Navy as it continues to develop the CSG’s full operational capability.

“Operation Highmast deployment has greatly advanced the UK Carrier Strike Group’s path to Full Operational Capability while the UK CSG transit through the South China Sea provided the UK CSG to demonstrate freedom of navigation in the region and the shared belief to uphold the rules-based international order,” said Commodore James Blackmore, the strike group commander.

Blackmore acknowledged the complexity of this effort, noting, “It is easier to say than it is to do,” when describing the challenge of expanding cooperation with regional allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific.

The strike group’s operations required coordination across vast distances, showcasing readiness, resilience, and precision under demanding conditions.

Cooperation, freedom of navigation and maritime security

Throughout the deployment, the Carrier Strike Group worked to deepen ties with regional partners through linked encrypted networks and joint operations. Multilateral exercises improved coordination and strengthened the ability to protect vital sea lanes.

A recent port call in Singapore further underscored the value of cooperation in maintaining stability across one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors. The exercise demonstrated shared responsibility for freedom of navigation and maritime security.

By operating with allied navies, the strike group emphasized that maintaining open and secure seas is a collective endeavor requiring professionalism, coordination and trust.

Strengthening global partnerships for the future

The deployment’s achievements reaffirm the Royal Navy’s global relevance and its central role in promoting stability through cooperation. The mission strengthened bonds among partners committed to maritime freedom and a safer Indo-Pacific.