Norway To Join UK Navy Deployment To Indo-Pacific Next Year

The Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Prince of Wales, one of Britain’s two aircraft carriers, and accompanied by her escorts and aircraft, will work alongside the Japanese Self Defence Forces and other partners to help defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Norway is a long-standing NATO ally, and part of the Joint Expeditionary Force and Northern Group, whilst also being a strong trade partner with the UK. Their involvement will bolster the Strike Group with two ships, including one frigate, demonstrating that the security of the Euro-Atlantic region and Indo-Pacific is indivisible.  

The Carrier Strike Group deployment in 2025 highlights the strength of the UK’s determination to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific. This has been bolstered by the Royal Navy’s persistent presence in the region through HMS Spey and HMS Tamar.

The deployment will last for around seven months and bring a range of military, security and prosperity benefits for the UK and participating nations. It will reinforce the UK’s commitment to global security, anchored on the NATO Alliance, but also build partnerships with those who share our world view around the globe. 

A Carrier Strike Group is a versatile and lethal resource that few countries possess. Always led by an aircraft carrier embarked with F-35B Lightning jets, the rest of the UK formation can be made up of submarines, warships and support vessels, including from other allied navies. 

The Carrier Strike Group offers cutting-edge air, surface and underwater defence, but it is also a focal point for delivering wider strategic objectives.