Sailors Aboard Britain’s Newest Aircraft Carrier Train for Arctic Challenges

Aboard a Royal Navy helicopter, the fog clings to Norway’s rugged coastline as the aircraft glides over cold waters. As days become shorter and temperatures drop in the High North, the weather worsens.

The helicopter, a Merlink Mk4, lands on the flight deck of HMS Prince of Wales, the UK’s flagship aircraft carrier. Winds sweep across as sailors, dressed in protective gear, position F-35 stealth fighter jets.

By midday, the sun nears the horizon, creating operational challenges as daylight fades.

Business Insider visited the Prince of Wales during its mission in the Norwegian Sea in early November. This mission marks the second phase of Operation Firecrest, aimed at deterring threats in Arctic and North Atlantic waters.

NATO is bolstering its northern defenses in response to increased Russian military actions. Yet, operating in these regions, especially in colder and darker winter months, poses significant challenges.

The High North presents a “complex environment,” according to Capt. Ben Power, commanding officer of the Prince of Wales. He emphasizes the necessity for the crew to operate without radar or radio communications, skills essential for “warfighting proficiency.”

“Such tasks are more intricate here in the High North than elsewhere,” Power remarked.

NATO has ramped up patrols in the Arctic and North Atlantic to track Russian naval movements and deter potential threats. Western officials emphasize monitoring Russian submarines based in Murmansk, near the Barents Sea.

These submarines often move south via the North Sea or GIUK gap, a strategic chokepoint between Greenland, Iceland, and the UK. NATO’s presence is crucial in this area.

“Russian activity has increased across sea levels, notably beneath the sea,” Power stated. “Russia remains a credible threat.”

Previously, Western naval officers on a Dutch frigate in the Arctic noted how poor visibility, rough seas, and large swells affect operations, especially flight operations. Adverse weather necessitates regular training in challenging environments.

This week, Commodore Richard Hewitt, commander of the UK’s carrier strike group, acknowledged the High North’s challenges but praised the crew’s adaptability.

During the first phase of Operation Firecrest, the Prince of Wales supported Arctic Sentry, a NATO mission to enhance security with exercises and patrols.

“Our operations have concentrated on the High North,” Hewitt said. “This focus will likely persist in the North Atlantic.”