The Royal Navy’s flagship HMS Prince of Wales has arrived in Tokyo, leading the UK Carrier Strike Group into Japan’s capital for what the service described as a historic port visit.
According to the Royal Navy, the stop will include tours for the public, events with dignitaries and defence leaders, and the hosting of the Pacific Future Forum, an international summit focused on security, technology, and economic issues.
Captain Will Blackett, Commanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales, said:
“After a brief but busy period of planned maintenance in Yokosuka, it’s a huge privilege to bring the Royal Navy fleet flagship into the centre of Tokyo. Before arriving to Japan, we exercised with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force at sea. It has been great to see what we can do together and our commitment to working with our partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Japan has been an incredible place to visit, our sailors have been so welcomed here and have explored all across the country. The Tokyo night skyline, with HMS Prince of Wales in it, is going to be really special.”
The arrival drew significant attention, with sailors lining the flight deck and onlookers greeting the ship from bridges and waterfront viewpoints.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP, Japan’s Minister of Defence Gen Nakatani, and First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Gwyn Jenkins were present to welcome the carrier.
The deployment, named Operation Highmast, has so far taken the UK Carrier Strike Group through the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Indian Ocean, with visits to Singapore and Australia. The Royal Navy stated the mission is intended to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to regional security, demonstrate resolve with allies, and showcase British trade and industry.
The strike group is the largest deployed by the UK in years, involving upwards of 4,500 British personnel, including nearly 2,500 Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines, 600 RAF personnel, and 900 soldiers.
While in Tokyo, the Royal Navy confirmed HMS Prince of Wales will also host a Defence and Security Industry Day to promote British defence capabilities and innovation in line with the government’s Plan for Change.
Following its Tokyo visit, HMS Prince of Wales will regroup with escorts HMS Richmond and RFA Tidespring, currently alongside in Busan, Republic of Korea.
AloJapan.com