In a significant demonstration of military strength, the Royal Navy's flagship aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales has been transferred to NATO command for the first time in the alliance's history.
Historic NATO Deployment
The massive 280-metre-long warship, carrying 24 British F-35 fighter jets, had been deployed to the Mediterranean for alliance training exercises. The vessel was heading to Italy to participate in 'Exercise Falcon Strike', a major NATO air and maritime drill.
This landmark decision represents the first time NATO has commanded a full carrier strike group, which includes not only the HMS Prince of Wales but also its support ships and the advanced fleet of F-35 aircraft.
Strengthening European Defences
The deployment serves as a powerful signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin amid growing European security concerns. Discussions about enhancing Europe's defence capabilities against Russia were scheduled to be central to talks between UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Defence Secretary John Healey and their Italian counterparts on Monday.
The British government delegation will host Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto and foreign minister Antonio Tajani aboard the HMS Prince of Wales while the vessel remains stationed off the coast of Naples.
British F-35 jets have already commenced joint exercises with Italian aircraft, demonstrating the deepening military cooperation between the two NATO allies.
UK's NATO-First Strategy
Defence Secretary John Healey emphasised that placing the carrier strike group under NATO command exemplifies the UK's 'Nato-first' strategy outlined in this year's Strategic Defence Review. This plan calls for the UK to enhance its war readiness and focus preparations within Europe while strengthening the Western alliance's joint forces.
Mr Healey stated: "We are in a new era of threat that demands a new era for defence. Our strength comes from hard power and strong alliances, so it is fitting to mark this moment alongside one of our closest Nato allies in Italy."
He added: "Their F-35s have been operating from the carrier to demonstrate the deep partnership between our militaries."
The carrier strike group will later participate in another major NATO exercise called Neptune Strike, which will test the alliance's capabilities in maritime target strikes, aircraft carrier jet launches and amphibious landings.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper commented: "Partnerships we build abroad make us stronger at home."
She further explained: "With Italy we are developing the fighter jets of the future, supporting thousands of British jobs, and delivering security for Nato in the Mediterranean and across Europe. These joint exercises in the Bay of Naples are the clearest demonstration of how the UK is working with our allies to keep our continent safe."
The Mediterranean deployment follows the carrier strike group's five-month mission in the Indo-Pacific, where it conducted drills with allies including Japan, Australia and India. During its current tour, British forces will also collaborate with military personnel from Greece, Albania and Spain.
