UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that Britain will send its aircraft carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and High North region later this year, in a demonstration of military strength as security tensions mount.

Addressing the annual Munich Security Conference in Germany on Saturday, Starmer stated that the operation would be commanded by HMS Prince of Wales and conducted jointly with the United States, Canada, and other .

“I can confirm today that Britain will dispatch our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and High North this year, under the leadership of HMS Prince of Wales, working together with the U.S., Canada and fellow NATO allies, as a strong demonstration of our dedication to Euro-Atlantic security,” Starmer addressed the prestigious gathering focused on reinforcing European defense and diplomatic connections.

The High North—a designation for the Arctic and adjacent areas—has grown more strategically important as concerns continue to mount .

The military deployment aims to strengthen defenses against possible Russian threats, according to .

This declaration follows President Donald Trump’s repeated expressions of interest in the United States purchasing Greenland, which he justifies by citing Arctic national security issues related to Russia and China.

Starmer cautioned that Moscow’s military expansion could escalate even following a peace deal, contending that Russian rearmament would merely speed up.

He stated that Europe must be ready to “prevent aggression” and, when required, be prepared for combat.

“We need to develop our military capabilities, as that represents the prevailing standard of our era,” he remarked.

The carrier strike group constitutes an international naval formation commanded by the Royal Navy, comprising one aircraft carrier, approximately 40 warplanes, a frigate, a destroyer, a submarine, and a support vessel, per BBC reporting.

HMS Prince of Wales, an aircraft carrier valued at approximately $3.5 billion, functions as the Royal Navy’s principal vessel, according to BBC News.

Trump had earlier threatened to impose tariffs on the UK and other European nations unless they agreed to permit American control of the Danish territory.

Following his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in late January, Trump declared he would hold off on tariffs scheduled for February 1, stating they established the “structure for a prospective agreement concerning Greenland and indeed the whole Arctic region.”

Speaking to journalists outside the White House on Friday, Trump said the administration is “currently in negotiations over Greenland,” noting that “Our relations with Europe are very positive.”

The president also fielded questions regarding the Munich Security Conference.

“Without my involvement, they would be contributing 2% instead of what they’re paying,” Trump commented on NATO allies. “They’re now paying 5% and fulfilling their obligations. Our relationship with NATO is excellent.”

The three-day Munich event convenes global leaders, military commanders, and security experts.

Starmer did not promptly reply to Digital’s inquiry for a statement.