UK putting both aircraft carriers to sea at the same time
The Royal Navy is preparing for a relatively busy period as both HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth set sail for equipment trials and training exercises.
HMS Prince of Wales is scheduled to depart Portsmouth tomorrow, the 4th of September, at 12:35 PM, following the earlier departure of HMS Queen Elizabeth, which left on the 2nd of September at 12:10 PM.
HMS Queen Elizabeth’s deployment comes after extensive repairs and capability upgrades completed at Rosyth earlier this year. The carrier underwent critical work on its starboard propeller shaft coupling, necessary due to a technical issue that led to its withdrawal from the NATO exercise Steadfast Defender. During this time, HMS Prince of Wales took over operational responsibilities.
The vessels are the most powerful warships ever built for the Royal Navy, displacing approximately 65,000 tonnes and measuring 280 metres in length. The carriers are capable of carrying up to 40 aircraft, including the advanced F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters and a variety of helicopters.
Commissioned in December 2017, HMS Queen Elizabeth has already undertaken significant operational duties, including a global deployment in 2021. HMS Prince of Wales, commissioned in 2019, has also deployed operationally to the United States as well as around Europe and the Arctic.
Both carriers are now embarking on their respective equipment trials, which are essential for testing and validating new systems onboard.
There is no indication that they will operate together during this period at sea. We understand that each vessel will conduct its training and trials independently.
