Day 132:Japan

The UK Carrier Strike Group sailed through the Pacific Ocean as it continued the journey on its eight-month global deployment, known as Operation Highmast. Following an intensive training programme in and around Australia’s coastal lines, CSG25 and its allies travelled to the northern Pacific, stopping in Japan and South Korea.


HMS Prince of Wales and her crew were welcomed into the bright lights of Tokyo, kicking off the flagship carrier’s high-profile visit and five-day stay in the Japanese capital city. On the agenda were several public tours, diplomatic engagements with members of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, and this year’s Pacific Future Forum — an international security and defence summit in the region. Head of the Royal Navy, First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, and UK Defence Secretary, John Healey, were also in attendance.


While the crew of HMS Prince of Wales enjoyed the sights of Tokyo, HMS Dauntless and Norwegian frigate HNoMS Roald Amundsen headed for the central coastal city of Yokosuka, known for its naval base and signature fusion of Japanese and American cuisine. Further afield, HMS Richmond and RFA Tidespring headed to sunny Busan in South Korea, where local and naval chefs exchanged recipes and dishes at a popular eatery.


Adventurous training was also up for grabs, with some daring naval personnel taking on a climb of Mount Fuji. The stops in Japan and South Korea were a much needed rest for the crew of CSG25, giving personnel the opportunity to explore new cuisine and culture, while the Group’s vessels received crucial maintenance and resupply for the journey ahead.