Darwin City, Australia - July 23, 2025 On July 23, 2025, the Royal Navy aircraft carrier and fleet flagship, HMS Prince of Wales, arrived in Darwin Harbour. Drone footage captured the carrier docking as part of the UK Carrier Strike Group’s deployment to the Indo-Pacific. This marks the first time a Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier has visited Australia, and the first Royal Navy carrier visit since 1997. HMS Prince of Wales is currently leading the UK Carrier Strike Group during Exercise Talisman Sabre. The multinational drill, led by Australia, aims to strengthen ties between partner nations and uphold the Rules-based International System. The 2025 edition is the eleventh and largest to date, with 19 countries participating. Over 30,000 personnel, ships, and aircraft will conduct operations across Australia and Papua New Guinea. The visit is part of Operation Highmast, the Royal Navy’s flagship mission of 2025. The eight-month journey will take the group through the Mediterranean, Middle East, and western Pacific Rim. The deployment includes joint exercises with allies to highlight the UK's commitment to global security and promote British trade and industry. More than 4,500 British personnel are involved in the mission, including 2,500 Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines, 900 soldiers, and 600 Royal Air Force members.