UK Defence Secretary Signals Readiness to Fight Over Taiwan Amid Indo-Pacific Tensions

Britain's Defence Secretary John Healey has stated that the UK is prepared to fight alongside Australia if conflict erupts over Taiwan, marking one of the clearest signals from a senior British official on potential military engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. Healey made these remarks aboard the HMS Prince of Wales, which is currently deployed in the Pacific as part of a nine-month mission that includes participation in the multinational Exercise Talisman Sabre with allied forces such as the US, Japan, and Australia. While emphasizing that he was speaking in general terms and preferring diplomatic resolution, Healey underscored the importance of securing peace through strength and readiness, highlighting joint exercises as a deterrent against coercion by China. The deployment and statements align with the UK’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy under the Integrated Review and AUKUS frameworks, reflecting growing concerns over China's assertive posture, including threats of force against Taiwan and territorial disputes in the region. The Royal Navy's presence includes advanced assets like F-35 stealth fighters and Royal Marines, and the UK maintains a permanent naval presence with offshore patrol vessels in the area. Healey’s comments indicate a shift toward more explicit support for Taiwan amid rising regional tensions, as China continues to assert its claim over the island and signals willingness to use force if necessary.