UK, South Korea hold joint drills amid Indo-Pacific deployment

A British aircraft carrier conducted military drills off the South Korean port city of Busan on Monday, September 8, underscoring the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations, officials said.

The 65,000-ton HMS Prince of Wales held an aerial capability demonstration in international waters, involving F-35B stealth fighter jets embarked on the warship, according to a statement from the British Embassy in Seoul, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media. 

“The visit of HMS Prince of Wales to Korean waters highlights the UK’s strong commitment to a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific and showcases the depth of our partnership with Korea,” said Colin Crooks, British ambassador to South Korea.

The drills were designed to send a “clear signal” that the United Kingdom aims to strengthen its strategic partnership with South Korea and contribute to regional security, the statement added.

The aircraft carrier can operate up to 24 F-35B jets and accommodate 700 crew members, or up to 1,600 personnel when including aircraft and troops. Following the aerial demonstration, British and South Korean naval forces conducted joint exercises with three vessels from each country, aimed at enhancing interoperability and combined operational capabilities.

Monday’s drills are part of the Royal Navy’s eight-month deployment across the Indo-Pacific, known as “Operation Highmast.” Last month, HMS Richmond and RFA Tidespring also made port calls in Busan as part of the same operation.

The exercises highlight ongoing defence cooperation between South Korea and the United Kingdom, which dates back to the 1950-53 Korean War and has expanded through joint exercises, defence dialogues, and strategic collaboration. In 2023, the two countries marked 140 years of diplomatic relations by upgrading their ties to a “global strategic partnership” focused on defence and security.

By Khagan Isayev