UK Carrier Strike Group reaches Indian Ocean region

Maritime July 19, 2021

The UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2021, led by HMS Queen Elizabeth, has sailed into the Indian Ocean Region having recently transited the Suez Canal.

Following a series of successful engagements and operations in the Mediterranean it is now sailing East across the Indian Ocean towards India. It will then meet with ships from the Indian Navy to conduct routine maritime exercises.

The deployment represents the UK’s commitment to deepening diplomatic, economic and security ties with India and in the Indo-Pacific region. It demonstrates both the UK’s support for the freedom of passage through vital trading routes and for a free, open and inclusive order in the Indo-Pacific.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “The UK Carrier Strike Group deployment is a major moment for UK defence as we develop this cutting edge capability across the globe.

“The group is sailing the Indian Ocean and will shortly conduct exercises with the Indian Navy, building on our already strong partnership with an important ally and friend.”

The deployment illustrates the UK’s enduring commitment to global defence and security, strengthening our existing alliances and forging new partnerships with like-minded countries as we face up to the challenges of the 21st century.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: “The Carrier Strike Group deployment marks the start of a new era of defence cooperation with allies in India and the Indo-Pacific.

“By visiting 40 countries and working alongside our partners, the UK is standing up for democratic values, seizing new trading opportunities and tackling the shared threats we face together.

“The deployment will interact with India, strengthening our already deep ties for the benefit of both our peoples’ security and prosperity.”