Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales prepares to sail from Portsmouth on high-risk mission that could pass through the Taiwan Strait amid rising tensions with China

The HMS Prince of Wales, the flagship of the Royal Navy, is embarking on a significant mission that could see it pass through the controversial Taiwan Strait.

This move comes with the potential to anger China, as the region is seen as a flashpoint for tensions.

The ship is part of the Carrier Strike Group (CSG), a £3 billion aircraft strike force, which is set to depart Portsmouth for an eight-month deployment.

The Mission: Operation Highmast

Today marks the beginning of Operation Highmast, with the CSG leaving the UK for the Indo-Pacific.

While the government has not confirmed the exact route, the Navy has not dismissed the possibility of transiting through the Taiwan Strait.

This decision comes despite the growing military tensions in the region.

Earlier this month, China’s military conducted live-fire exercises in the Strait, simulating strikes on vital ports and energy facilities.

Many believe this is a sign of Beijing preparing for a potential invasion of Taiwan.

A Commitment to International Order

Commodore James Blackmore, the head of the UK Carrier Strike Group, has made it clear that the mission will proceed, no matter the potential risks.

Speaking to the Telegraph, he emphasized the Navy’s commitment to upholding international order, even if that means facing conflict.

“I will deliver whatever mission I am ordered to go and do – that’s my role,” he said.

His statement underscores the readiness of the forces to act under any circumstances, whether it’s for combat, defense, or strengthening partnerships with allies.

Blackmore also reiterated that while the route is ultimately decided by the government, the mission’s broader purpose is to reassure partners and demonstrate commitment to global stability.

A Massive International Force

HMS Prince of Wales is the largest ship in the Royal Navy, and it will lead CSG 25 with the help of around 2,500 personnel from the Royal Navy, 592 from the Royal Air Force, and 900 from the Army.

Accompanying the flagship is the Type 45 destroyer, HMS Dauntless, as well as Norwegian and Canadian vessels.

Norwegian ships, including the tanker HNoMS Maud and the frigate HNoMS Roald Amundsen, along with the UK’s HMS Richmond and Canada’s HMCS Ville de Quebec, will join the group from Plymouth.

As the deployment progresses, the number of military personnel involved in the mission will increase to as many as 4,500.

This includes forces from Norway, Canada, and Spain, among other nations.

The exercise aims to strengthen cooperation among 12 participating countries.

Potential Controversy: Taiwan and China

This deployment marks the second such mission to the Indo-Pacific, with the first one in 2021 led by HMS Queen Elizabeth.

During that mission, the fleet avoided the Taiwan Strait to avoid provoking China.

However, with the current warming of UK-China relations under the new Labour government, there is speculation about how the UK will navigate the issue during this mission.

If the CSG avoids the Taiwan Strait this time, it could lead to further criticism, particularly from those who feel the UK is trying to strengthen trade relations with China at the expense of standing up to them over Taiwan.

Yet, the UK’s government has shown signs of engaging more diplomatically with China, with recent visits from high-ranking officials, including Admiral Sir Tony Radakin and Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Potential Risks Ahead: Red Sea and Beyond

Beyond the Taiwan Strait, the deployment could face other challenges, particularly in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea.

This vital waterway has seen increased attacks from Houthi militants on both commercial and naval vessels.

Commodore Blackmore assured that the Navy is ready for any eventuality, including the possibility of engaging in defensive strikes if necessary.

“This is a demonstration of the UK’s ability to respond to threats and maintain a credible military presence,” he said, underscoring the importance of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group in global operations.

The Bigger Picture: Deterrence and International Cooperation

Defence Secretary John Healey called the mission “immensely complex” but stressed its importance in sending a strong message of deterrence.

The mission not only highlights the UK’s military readiness but also serves to bolster security and stability in the region.

According to Healey, this operation is a unique opportunity to strengthen relationships with global allies, boost British trade, and ensure the UK’s continued commitment to international peace.

As the mission unfolds, all eyes will be on HMS Prince of Wales and the broader CSG, watching how they navigate the geopolitical tensions ahead.

What happens next will likely shape the future of UK military strategy and its role on the world stage.