The mission will see the carrier and its air wing operate closely with allies and partners worldwide, demonstrating the UK’s continued commitment to global security. Key engagements will take place in both the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific as part of a broader international effort.
Central to the mission is the formal declaration of full operating capability for the UK Lightning Force, confirming the jets and their support systems can deploy two squadrons worldwide. This marks a pivotal achievement in the UK’s defence readiness and air power projection.
“Operation Highmast signifies a major milestone for the Lightning Programme,” said Group Captain John Butcher, Lightning Air Wing Commander. “It will realise full operating capability for F-35 in the UK with the ability to deploy two squadrons to the maritime operating base.”
Highlighting the multinational aspect of the mission, Butcher added: “We’re international by design on Operation Highmast and will be operating with key allies and partners…with a real role to play in the Indo-Pacific.” He emphasised the strategic flexibility gained, stating, “It will be the realisation of us to deploy two squadrons…to deliver air effect.”
Joining the mission are 809 Naval Air Squadron and 617 Squadron from RAF Marham, with 809 making its first operational deployment since its reformation in 2023. Known as “The Immortals”, 809 Squadron will work alongside the historic 617 “Dambusters” Squadron aboard the carrier.
Commander Nick Smith of 809 Squadron said, “We’re a key link to the Royal Navy particularly when it comes to delivering air power at sea.” He added: “It’s hugely important that we get out and exercise with our allies and F-35 partners to prove the capability that we have in UK Defence.”
The Indo-Pacific leg of the deployment will include joint exercises with Australian and Japanese forces, both fellow F-35 operators. Smith noted, “The programme is global by design and gives us an excellent opportunity to…make sure we’re as lethal and deployable as possible.”
The F-35 squadrons comprise personnel from both the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, reflecting a fully integrated force structure. Notably, 617 Squadron is now led by Lieutenant Colonel Mike Carty, the first Royal Marine to command a UK fighter squadron.
“For myself, it’s an incredible privilege and honour to take the reins,” said Carty. “It’s also unique for UK Defence but what it shows is the joint nature of the squadron and how we integrate between the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.”
Carty also underlined the deployment’s broader significance: “Operation Highmast is an incredibly important deployment. For 617 Squadron it gives us the ability to hone our skills…and develop operationally alongside allies and partners.”
Source: Royal Navy.
