Ionian Sea, Mediterranean – A dramatic video shows a jet making a vertical landing at night on the HMS Prince of Wales during Exercise Med Strike 2025.

The landing took place on the flight deck of the Royal Navy’s flagship as part of intense night operations.

Exercise Med Strike runs from May 5 to May 11. It brings together all elements of the Carrier Strike Group in a powerful show of force.

In the waters between Taranto and Sicily, two carrier strike groups operate together. They are supported by 21 warships, three submarines, 41 fast jets, 19 helicopters, and ten patrol aircraft.

More than 8,000 personnel from 12 nations are involved in the joint training.

The exercise is part of Operation Highmast, the Royal Navy’s main deployment of 2025. The eight-month mission leads the task group from the Mediterranean to the western Pacific Rim.

The deployment will include stops in the Middle East and large-scale operations with allies and partners.

The operation showcases the UK’s commitment to security in both the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions. It also aims to demonstrate unity with allies and support for British trade and industry.

Around 4,500 British military personnel are participating. That includes 600 from the Royal Air Force, 900 soldiers, and 2,500 Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines.

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