By Patrick Triglavcanin

Since starting its ‘tilt’ to the Indo-Pacific in 2021, the United Kingdom (UK) has integrated itself into the region both economically and militarily with broad success, a process which has accelerated in recent years.

The UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2025 is a standout case, returning home last weekend following an eight-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific with over 40,000 nautical miles sailed.

Britain can still go further in many respects. But there is one pillar of the approach to the Indo-Pacific which has continued across administrations and remains a lodestar: the essential need to develop relationships with allies and partners.

Britain needs strong military, industrial, and diplomatic relations if it plans to meet present problems in the Indo-Pacific. Given the maritime nature of the region, as well as the challenge posed by China’s fast-expanding People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), it makes sense that many old and new partnerships are maritime focused. This should continue, with clear benefits on offer for the UK.

AUKUS serves as the best example. It is enhancing the UK’s force posture in the Indo-Pacific through access to Fleet Base West in Western Australia, shoring up domestic industry through

© LBC