The UK will deploy an aircraft carrier strike group to the North Atlantic.

According to a report by Reference News Network on February 16, Agence France-Presse reported on February 14 that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on the 14th that as part of a security mission to counter the threat from Russia, the UK will deploy a carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and Arctic regions this year.

Starmer stated at the Munich Security Conference on the 14th: “I can announce today that the UK will deploy a carrier strike group centered around the HMS Prince of Wales to the North Atlantic and Arctic regions, working alongside the United States, Canada, and other NATO allies.”

Starmer described this move as “a strong demonstration of our commitment to the security of Europe and the Atlantic.”

France will also deploy a carrier strike group to the region in 2026.

The UK Ministry of Defence subsequently issued a statement, clearly announcing that this deployment will include Royal Navy warships, F-35 fighter jets, and helicopters, with the aim of “deterring Russia and protecting critical underwater infrastructure.”

The statement from the UK Ministry of Defence also noted that “over the past two years, the number of Russian vessels threatening UK waters has increased by 30%.”

UK Defence Secretary John Healey stated in the announcement: “This deployment will enhance the UK's readiness, increase our contributions to NATO, strengthen operational cooperation with key allies, and ensure the security of the UK homeland and our overseas forces.”

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius also warned that countries like Russia are “preparing to project military and economic power into the Arctic region.”

He stated at the Munich Security Conference: “Once the situation in Europe escalates, it is highly likely that Russia will use the Northern Fleet to open a second front, cut off transatlantic supply lines, and threaten both sides of the Atlantic with nuclear submarines.” (Translated by Wang Zhongju)