The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the UK’s second aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, and its Carrier Strike Group (CSG) have been declared ‘mission ready’, achieving Full Operating Capability.
In a significant development for European defence, the entire strike group has been committed to NATO command for the first time. This milestone confirms the operational status of the UK’s carrier strike programme, presenting long-term opportunities for the industrial base and supply chain partners involved in supporting this complex national capability.
The declaration of Full Operating Capability signifies the complete integration of the 65,000-tonne warship with its F-35B Lightning fighter jets, airborne surveillance assets, and the flotilla of support ships and submarines that constitute the strike group. For suppliers, this transition from generation to operation solidifies the requirement for sustained maintenance, repair, overhaul, and through-life support contracts necessary to maintain the group’s high readiness. The commitment to NATO command, a key component of the UK’s ‘NATO-first’ policy, will also drive demand for systems and technologies that ensure deep interoperability with allied forces.
This was demonstrated as UK F-35s operated alongside Italian counterparts during Exercise Falcon Strike. The CSG is now scheduled to participate in the major NATO exercise Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean, which will further test integrated capabilities in carrier-based air missions, anti-submarine warfare, and amphibious landings. Such exercises place significant demands on equipment and consumables, creating a consistent pipeline of requirements for the extensive supply chains that support the fleet.
A key area of opportunity highlighted during the deployment is the advancement of uncrewed systems. HMS Prince of Wales has successfully conducted over 50 landings of logistics drones used for resupplying the carrier while at sea. This practical application signals a clear MoD trajectory towards integrating uncrewed aerial systems into routine maritime operations. This presents a tangible opening for businesses specialising in UAS platforms, autonomous control systems, payload integration, and data management to engage with the maritime defence sector. The FOC declaration provides the defence industry with a clear and stable long-term requirement, underpinning investment and partnership opportunities across the full spectrum of naval and aviation support services.
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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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