Defence Secretary visits future Flagship

The Defence Secretary has visited the largest and most powerful Royal Navy ship for the first time at sea.

Michael Fallon landed by helicopter on the deck on the new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which is currently on sea trials near the coast of Scotland. He met with and thanked members of the crew for their contribution to UK defence.

Whilst there, Fallon announced that HMS Prince of Wales, Britain’s second aircraft carrier, will be officially named at a ceremony in Rosyth on 8 September 2017.

HMS Queen Elizabeth, since setting out in June, has had her first helicopter landing, first passenger boat transfer and first port call in Invergorden.

The Ship’s Company consists of a crew of over 700 Royal Navy and 200 industry personnel.

The initial period of sea trials will test the fundamentals of the ship, including speed, manoeuvrability, power and propulsion, as well as weapons trials and tests on levels of readiness.

HMS Queen Elizabeth is expected to enter Portsmouth to be handed over to the Royal Navy later this year.

Michael Fallon, Defence Secretary, said: “Our carrier programme is a clear demonstration of British power and commitment to our global standing. With two aircraft carriers we will have one available at all times, providing a world-class carrier strike capability. They offer a prodigious promise to future generations of our determination to continue fronting up to aggression for years to come.

“The magnificent HMS Queen Elizabeth provides us with power on a scale we have never seen before. Protecting us for the next half a century, she will be a highly versatile and potent force, capable of both humanitarian and disaster relief and high-end war fighting.”

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