Starmer Deploys UK Strike Group to Arctic Amid Heightened Russian Tensions, as Trump Advocates Greenland Acquisition

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed plans for the United Kingdom to dispatch its aircraft carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North later this year. This move comes as a response to rising security tensions throughout Europe.

During his address on Saturday at the annual Munich Security Conference in Germany, Starmer outlined that the mission will be spearheaded by HMS Prince of Wales. The operation will be conducted in collaboration with the U.S., Canada, and other NATO partners.

“Today, I am pleased to announce that the U.K. will send our carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and the High North this year. This mission, led by HMS Prince of Wales and carried out alongside the U.S., Canada, and other NATO allies, serves as a strong demonstration of our dedication to Euro-Atlantic security,” Starmer stated at the prestigious forum, which focuses on enhancing European defense and diplomatic relationships.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer participated in a panel discussion with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, on February 14, 2026. (Photo: Stefan Rousseau/Pool via REUTERS)

The term “High North” refers to the Arctic and its surrounding areas, which have gained strategic importance due to the increasing military activities of Russia in the region.

The deployment is intended to bolster security against potential Russian threats, according to BBC News.

The announcement comes as President Donald Trump has repeatedly reiterated interest in the U.S. acquiring Greenland, citing national security concerns in the Arctic regarding Russia and China.

Starmer warned that Moscow’s military buildup could intensify even if a peace agreement is reached in Ukraine, arguing that Russian rearmament would “only accelerate.” 

People with umbrellas walk past a pedestrian bridge with the logo of the Munich Security Conference in Munich, southern Germany on Feb. 12, 2026.  (THOMAS KIENZLE / AFP via Getty Images)

Europe, he said, must be prepared to “deter aggression” and, if necessary, be ready to fight.

“We must build our hard power, because that is the currency of the age,” he said.

The carrier strike group is an international naval task force led by the Royal Navy. It consists of one aircraft carrier, about 40 aircraft, a frigate, a destroyer, a submarine and a supply ship, according to BBC News.

HMS Prince of Wales, a roughly $3.5 billion aircraft carrier, serves as the Royal Navy’s flagship, BBC News reported.

Trump has previously threatened tariffs on Britain and other European countries unless an agreement is reached allowing the U.S. to take control of the Danish territory. 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer takes part in a panel discussion with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, on Feb. 14, 2026.   (Stefan Rousseau/Pool via REUTERS)

After meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in late January, Trump announced that he would not impose tariffs that were set to take effect Feb. 1 given they formed the “framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region.”

Trump told reporters outside the White House on Friday that the administration is “negotiating right now for Greenland,” adding that, “We get along very well with Europe.” 

The president was also asked about the Munich Security Conference.

“If it wasn’t for me, they’d be paying 2% and not paying,” Trump said of NATO allies. “They’re paying 5% and they’re paying. We have a very good relationship with NATO.”

The three-day Munich conference brings together world leaders, defense chiefs and security officials.

Starmer did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.