UK Warship Holds Joint Drills Near South Korea to Strengthen Military Ties
A British aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, held military drills off the coast of Busan, South Korea on Monday, highlighting growing defense ties between the two countries.
The massive 65,000-ton warship showed off its air capabilities in international waters, using F-35B stealth fighter jets launched from the ship’s deck, according to a statement from the British Embassy in Seoul.
“This visit shows the UK’s strong commitment to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Colin Crooks, British ambassador to South Korea. “It also reflects the deep partnership we have with Korea.”
The HMS Prince of Wales is the UK’s flagship aircraft carrier. It can carry up to 24 F-35B fighter jets, hold 700 crew members, and accommodate up to 1,600 people when fully loaded with aircraft and troops.
After the solo demonstration, the UK and South Korean navies carried out joint naval drills, with three ships from each country taking part. The goal was to improve teamwork and coordination between the two forces.
These exercises are part of the British Navy’s eight-month Indo-Pacific mission called Operation Highmast, which shows the UK’s renewed focus on the region. Just last month, two other British naval ships — HMS Richmond and RFA Tidespring — also visited Busan as part of the same mission.
The UK and South Korea have been defense partners for decades, with their cooperation starting during the Korean War (1950–1953). Since then, the relationship has grown through joint exercises, defense talks, and strategic agreements.
In 2023, the two countries celebrated 140 years of diplomatic ties by upgrading their relationship to a “global strategic partnership,” with a strong focus on security and defense.
This latest visit by the HMS Prince of Wales sends a clear message: the UK is serious about boosting its role in the region and working closely with allies like South Korea.
