The flagship aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, carrying fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters, successfully conducted a series of simulated strike missions off the coast of Norway

The aircraft carrier strike group led by the British flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth conducted a series of simulated strike missions. The autumn deployment took place in the North Sea and Norwegian Sea.

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The aircraft carrier strike group actions were part of the Cobra Warrior exercise. F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, Merlin and Wildcat helicopters also took part in the event. They performed a variety of missions, including simulated enemy strikes and air defence.

One of the central scenarios involved identifying and neutralising surface-to-air threats, providing a safe path for follow-on strikes. Fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets were used for this purpose. The aircraft also simulated cover operations to deter enemy fighters.

HMS Queen Elizabeth was joined by warships from Norway, the Netherlands and Belgium. These included HMS Diamond, RFA Tideforce, HNoMS Otto Sverdrup, HNoMS Maud, HNLMS De Zeven Provincien, HNLMS Van Amstel and BNS Louise Marie.

Source: MoD UK