Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group embarks on Second Deployment, Reinforcing Global Security with Thales Support

Discover how Thales proudly supports the CSG deployment, as well as the extensive range of solutions Thales offers, not only to the Royal Navy to support their mission, but also to the UK Armed Forces and our allies who are dedicated to ensuring national safety and security.

The Carrier Strike Group represents the might of the UK's naval forces, bringing together an impressive array of ships, submarines, and aircrafts designed to project power and safeguard Britain’s interests at home and abroad. At the heart of this operation is HMS Prince of Wales—a state-of-the-art aircraft carrier equipped with cutting-edge technology including Thales systems that play a pivotal role in operational effectiveness. 

With the introduction of cutting-edge assets and technologies, the CSG is capable of addressing complex security challenges across the globe, while maintaining the Royal Navy’s reputation for operational readiness.

Anti-Submarine Warfare

Thales are the eyes and ears of the Royal Navy submarine fleet, providing critical capabilities that enhance maritime security. 

We keep the CSG deployment safe by providing anti-submarine warfare capabilities with our cutting-edge Sonar 2087 on Type 23 frigates. 

Through the Maritime Sensor Enhancement Team (MSET), we deliver, support and sustain the next generation of maritime sensors, providing unmatched submarine detection and ensuring the safety of naval operations at sea.

Mine Warfare

We are also at the forefront of mine warfare capabilities, advocating for safer operations by removing personnel from hazardous environments. 

Thales delivered the world’s first autonomous mine hunting system to the Royal Navy in March. This historical milestone was developed through OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) as part of the Franco-British MMCM (Maritime Mine Counter Measures) project.

By collaborating with SMEs and academia, our Maritime Autonomy Centre in Plymouth plays a key role in supporting the Royal Navy’s mission to protect the UK and safeguard vital sea lanes worldwide.

Mission Systems

Furthermore, we empower the Type 31 frigate with integrated mission systems designed for combat effectiveness. This includes capabilities such as Tacticos Combat Management System to integrate advanced Naval Radar systems for situational awareness, and Naval Communications solutions for all vessel types, from minehunters to aircraft carriers and submarines. Thales’ solutions are in service with navies worldwide and on all Royal Navy ship classes.

Electronic Warfare

Thales delivers critical information advantage and early warning through sophisticated electronic warfare solutions. Thales Vigile D gives navies the earliest possible visibility of threats, by identifying and locating radar signals in todays congested radio spectrum. Our submarine EW systems ensure that forces can operate with enhanced situational awareness and reduce vulnerabilities.  

Air Defence Systems

We are enhancing the combat effectiveness of the Wildcat Helicopter, arming it with advanced defence systems, such as the Martlet (LMM). In addition to this, we are securing the skies against aerial threats through the delivery of capabilities like StarStreak, the world’s fastest Very Short Range Air Defence missile.

Airborne Surveillance and Protection Systems

Thales provides information superiority across the domains. Peregrine, a partnership with Schiebel and deployed by the Royal Navy, provides the “eye in the sky” capability.

Crowsnest is crucial for defending carrier strike groups against low flying threats, missiles and fast attack craft in complex environments. These technologies allow for proactive threat identification and faster response times.

Vehicle Integration and Optronics

Enhancing the survivability of the UK’s armoured vehicles is paramount. Our innovative solutions include the Panoramic Above Armour Gimbal (PAAG), which provides vehicles with superior awareness on the battlefield. This utilises our world class expertise in optronics, which includes provision of visual systems for the UK’s submarine flotilla. 

Integrated with our DigitalCrew® algorithms, it exemplifies how we can successfully deploy AI at the edge. The result? Reduced cognitive burden for operators and enhanced situational awareness.

Avionics and Simulation

Thales is dedicated to making aircrews more efficient through our avionics and simulation technologies. Our capabilities encompass advanced Avionics systems for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations, as well as specialised training for land and maritime environments, which collectively enhance crew readiness.

Space, Cyber, and Digital

Driving digital transformation and building resilience are core to our mission. We are pioneering initiatives such as Digital Twins and Cyber resilience strategies, including establishing The National Digital Exploitation Centre (NDEC) in South Wales. These developments foster trust in programs that protect against cyber threats while adapting to the future of warfare.

As the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) embarks on its mission, it represents more than just defence and security; it also aims to foster growth. The CSG plays a vital role in generating new jobs across the UK, stimulating growth in the maritime sector and beyond. Our collaboration with local industries strengthens regional economies, ensuring that communities benefit from the innovation and skills within the defence sector.

As we reflect on the proud legacy of the Royal Navy and its modern capabilities, Thales is honoured to contribute significantly to this heritage. Our ongoing partnership with HMS Prince of Wales and the broader Carrier Strike Group ensures that the United Kingdom remains a formidable maritime power, capable of adapting to evolving threats while nurturing the future of defence in the UK.