Originally Posted by
SLXOwft
As Biggus says this is a gesture deployment, the air component FW, and to a limited extent RW, aircraft to counter the drone threat are fulfilling the necessary roles.
Two things that a Type 45 will add to British defence around Cyprus are forward radar coverage and the ability to control fighters or helicopters, and a large flight deck which can act as a lilypad for helicopters. Controlling fighter aircraft has been a role for warships since the 1940 Norwegian campaign.
On an Iran related note:
Royal Navy: Channel 5 TV special to show 'most dangerous leg' of HMS Prince of Wales’ Pacific op - when, times -
Portsmouth News
Scheduled to air on March 25 at 9pm...
Discussing the synopsis, a Channel 5 spokesperson said: “Filmed in October 2025, the aircraft carrier comes under orders to conduct warfighting drills within sight of Iran, just months after it entered into a 12-day war with Israel. JJ witnesses state of the art jets dropping massive bombs on the northern edge of the Arabian sea, well within range of Iranian drones and missiles.
“When HMS Prince of Wales
then turns to begin her long journey home, she must first pass through treacherous waters patrolled by Houthi terrorists. Backed by Iran, they have made threats against the Royal Navy, so JJ and the crew must prepare for the worst.”
Look out for the jets launching or on deck alert with air to air weapons. When launched they would have been under the control of the Type 45, just as ASW Merlins (Iran has submarines too) would have been under the control of a frigate which would have provided long range detection. That is why I personally think it makes no sense to talk of the carrier and escorts, as they work together to provide
Sea Control (as discussed at length on a dedicated thread).