Khaberni - The United Kingdom intends to deploy an aircraft carrier in the North Atlantic this year, as revealed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday, in a "strong show" of power against the Russian threats in the Arctic Circle.
Starmer said at the Munich Security Conference: "I announce today that the United Kingdom will deploy an aircraft carrier group in the North Atlantic and the extreme north (Arctic Circle) this year, led by the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales."
He mentioned that it will operate "alongside the United States, Canada, and other NATO members, in a strong demonstration of our commitment to Euro-Atlantic security."
The Ministry of Defense clarified that the group will include Royal Navy warships, F-35 fighters, and helicopters in what is called "Operation Firecrest."
This operation will be a "strong show of force to deter Russian aggression and protect underwater infrastructure." The aircraft carrier "HMS Prince of Wales" is the largest ship in the Royal Navy fleet, and it is also expected that American aircraft will operate from it.
The operation will include thousands of personnel from all three branches of the armed forces, according to a statement from the British Ministry of Defense. It elaborated that the deployment is part of a NATO mission that started this week "to enhance alliance security in a region where melting ice is opening many routes and increasing the risk of hostile state activities."
France also announced that it would deploy its aircraft carrier group in the region in 2026. Starmer affirmed that Britain needs to be ready to fight and should not hesitate after "Russia has proven its capability for aggression."
He emphasized that "the path ahead of us is clear and straightforward. We need to enhance our military strength because it is the currency of the era," adding: "We must be able to deter aggression, and yes, if necessary, we must be ready to fight."
The Ministry of Defense stated that deploying the group will enhance "NATO's deterrent capability amidst escalating Russian threats in the region," noting that "in the past two years, the number of Russian naval vessels threatening British waters has increased by 30%."
The enhanced military deployment in Europe comes after US President Donald Trump raised concerns among European countries with his attempts to subject the self-governing island of Greenland, under Danish sovereignty, to American control.
However, Trump announced last month reaching an understanding with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, granting Washington greater influence in this mineral-rich and strategically located region in the Arctic Circle.
