UK to deploy new aircraft carrier to the Far East to 'counter' China
In the latest sign the UK is determined to adopt a belligerent approach against China, it is being reported that military chiefs have drawn up plans to deploy one of Britain’s new aircraft carriers to the Far East.
News of the potential deployment comes on the heels of Prime Minister, Boris Johnson’s decision to expel the Chinese technology giant Huawei from the UK by 2027.
According to the Times (July 14), British military chiefs have drawn up plans to deploy the HMS Queen Elizabeth to the Far East as part of a broader strategy of countering an “increasingly assertive China”.
The HMS Queen Elizabeth – which costs £3.1 billion – is expected to set sail on its maiden voyage early next year.
The 65,000-tonne warship will be the focal point of a carrier strike group expected to deploy near Chinese territorial waters as part of a belligerent UK posture in the Far East.
The Times is reporting that the aircraft carrier is expected to conduct “military exercises” with allies, notably the US and Japan.
But in a sign the UK does not have an entirely coherent plan in place, the vessel is also “likely” to double up as a “floating trade fair”, effectively used as a platform for making “deals”.
The Times – which cites “defense” sources for its exclusive report - does not explain what kind of “deals” are expected to be struck on the deck of the HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Alongside its sister aircraft carrier, the HMS Prince of Wales, HMS Queen Elizabeth completes the UK’s new aircraft carrier fleet.
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