Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 111
Building interoperability with nations in the Indo-Pacific will be vital for delivering any tilt to...
Conclusion
Building interoperability with nations in the Indo-Pacific will be vital for delivering any tilt to the region. This must include coordinating with European partners and working to rebuild the military relationship with France. The Navy must continue to regularly exercise with partners in the region after the conclusion of CSG21, which will help to deter adversaries and demonstrate that the UK’s commitment to the region goes beyond rhetoric. This should include regular exercises with European and NATO partners, including consideration of developing a programme of exercises under AUKUS. The Department should develop a strategy for how it will collaborate with both regional partners and NATO allies in the Pacific within the next year. The Department should confirm in its response whether the Royal Navy will continue to contribute to Op ATALANTA.
Paragraph Reference:
111
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
Response: The MOD has a mature strategy for the Pacific and long track record of working effectively with regional allies and partners. The strength of these ties was demonstrated and strengthened during CSG21 (Operation FORTIS). The Defence Command Paper outlined a ‘tilt’ to the Indo-Pacific. This includes investment in Defence and Diplomatic Staffs, the persistent deployment of two OPVs and, from 2023, an LRG that will operate across the Indo-Asia Pacific. Activity is prioritised through the Strategic and Maritime Capability Steering Groups, in close liaison with other government departments. Planning is coordinated with key regional allies and partners as appropriate. The UK ceased to participate in Operation ATALANTA in March 2019; the UK no longer has the necessary legal basis to participate in EU Common Security and Defence Policy operations. We remain engaged around the Horn of Africa through bilateral and small group partnerships to promote the Rule of Law and support conflict prevention, stabilisation, and security reform.