UK Signals Readiness to Fight in Pacific if Conflict Erupts Over Taiwan

John Healey, the Defence Secretary, with Richard Marles, Australia’s deputy prime minister, on board the HMS Prince of Wales in Darwin. Photo: Robbie Stephenson/PA Wire

British Defence Secretary John Healey has suggested that the UK is prepared to join allies like Australia in a potential conflict over Taiwan, stating, «If we have to fight, as we have done in the past, Australia and the UK are nations that will fight together.»

Speaking aboard the HMS Prince of Wales, the UK’s largest aircraft carrier, Healey emphasized that joint military exercises help deter threats through readiness. His comments came as the carrier docked in Darwin to participate in Talisman Sabre, Australia’s largest-ever military drills, alongside the US and other allies, as explained by The Telegraph.

The HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier approaching Darwin harbour in Australia. Photo: Reuters.

While stressing the UK’s preference for diplomatic solutions, Healey acknowledged rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, where China’s military expansion and threats toward Taiwan have raised international alarm.

The UK’s deployment of the Prince of Wales marks its most significant presence in the region in nearly 30 years. The carrier group is expected to sail toward Japan and South Korea, possibly passing through the Taiwan Strait, reinforcing the UK’s stance on freedom of navigation.

David Lammy, who was also aboard HMS Prince of Wales, said the UK plans to conduct more freedom of navigation operations in the Taiwan Strait. Photo: Robbie Stephenson/PA Media

Foreign Secretary David Lammy also affirmed Britain’s commitment to Indo-Pacific security, while officials confirmed the UK’s approach to Taiwan remains unchanged.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that the United States is considering a 30% reduction in its military presence in Europe.