HMS Prince of Wales has encountered a dangerous foe at sea, a massive inflatable target known as the “Killer Tomato”.
The Royal Navy use a wide range of weapons training devices and simulators to train its personnel on various weapon systems, including firearms, missiles, and torpedoes.
Photographer LPhot Helayna Birkett, footage is Crown Copyright 2025.
— UK Defence Journal (@UKDefJournal) May 19, 2025
The inflatable target utilised for target practice during naval operations is colloquially referred to as the “Killer Tomato.” Its name is attributed to its resemblance to a large tomato.
These training devices are designed to provide realistic scenarios and simulations to help personnel develop the skills and knowledge necessary to operate the weapons systems effectively and safely.
Operation Highmast
Operation Highmast is an ambitious eight-month deployment of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG25), led by the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. This deployment aims to bolster the United Kingdom’s military presence and strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting the UK’s commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
As part of the UK’s global defence strategy, Operation Highmast is expected to involve joint exercises, port visits, and cooperation with key allies, including the United States, Japan, and Australia. The deployment also aligns with the UK’s broader strategic objectives, focusing on enhancing maritime security and deterring potential threats.
The Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Commodore James Blackmore, comprises HMS Prince of Wales, several Royal Navy escort vessels, and allied support ships. Notably, the deployment features a diverse range of aircraft, including F-35B Lightning II jets, Merlin helicopters, drones, and air assets from partner nations.
The inclusion of allied forces highlights the cooperative nature of the mission, strengthening interoperability and joint operational capability. Exercises planned during the deployment include anti-submarine warfare drills, maritime strike training, and integrated air defence scenarios, further reinforcing the UK’s operational readiness in the region.
The operation follows the successful CSG21 deployment, which marked the UK’s renewed maritime focus on the Indo-Pacific. Building on the lessons learned from previous carrier operations, CSG25 aims to enhance maritime security through presence patrols and joint exercises, particularly in areas of strategic interest such as the South China Sea and the Western Pacific. This deployment also underscores the Royal Navy’s growing role as a forward-leaning force, capable of rapid deployment and sustained presence in key global regions.
Currently, Operation Highmast is underway, with HMS Prince of Wales and accompanying vessels conducting initial phases of the deployment. The task group has completed joint training off the UK coast and is now in its first series of engagements in the Mediterranean before proceeding through the Suez Canal. Early indications suggest that the deployment is progressing smoothly, with naval and air assets demonstrating high levels of readiness.
Nice to see, with all the focus on drones of late we’ve risked forgetting about the threat gingers pose.
“Dark Star” was so prophetic 😏
Was Number 6 trying to escape again?
It’s so good to see this capability being demonstrated on the high seas, you can never tell when the next Vegan attack will happen.
“Hello, I’m a Vegan, did I tell you I’m a Vegan ?
And ya boo sucks to them Houthis.
You never know when the buggers will come along and liberate all your livestock.
Why did the RN retire its miniguns ? …. I thought they would be a good weapon against simple drones.
They have been replaced/swapped out for .50 Cal H2 Brownings .
.50 cal, slower firing rate. heavier recoil possibly too clumsy for smaller drones.
Why not have both ?
Lack of range I believe.
They really do Need to reconsider the organic inner layer defence of the carriers and all the larger ships.
I know I harp on about Italian ship building but they seem to be getting a lot of bang for their buck and their newest 40,000 ton Aviation/amphip has 3 76mm super rapids with dart guided munitions ( 80% hit rate against high speed manoeuvring targets at 8km range from memory) as its inner layer and then 3 25mm cannon automatic weapon stations as its CIWs.