On Monday, December 2, the HMS Prince of Wales will officially take over as flagship of the Royal Navymarking a key moment in his five-year service. The event, which will take place during a planned visit to Liverpool, symbolizes the rotation strategy between the two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier of the United Kingdom to ensure operational availability and maintenance.
Strategic Rotation Between Aircraft Carriers
- HMS Prince of Wales will replace HMS Queen Elizabeth as a flagship as part of a rotation plan.
- This approach guarantees:
- An aircraft carrier is always available for priority deployments.
- The other undergoes routine maintenance and training.
The Prince of Wales is ready to lead the UK Carrier Strike Group 2025 during a major global deployment east of the Suez Canal.
Captain's Remarks and Support from HMS Queen Elizabeth
- Capitaine Will BlackettCommanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales: “This is a proud moment… We are ready, we are excited and we can’t wait to take the next step in the ship’s life.”
- Capitaine Will KingCommanding Officer of HMS Queen Elizabeth: “Every sailor on HMS Queen Elizabeth knows the pride that comes from serving on the RN flagship. I wish HMS Prince of Wales every success… They will do a fantastic job.”
Recent preparations and milestones
- Exercice Strike Warrior :
- Built in the North Sea, HMS Prince of Wales took on board jets F-35B Lightning of 809 Naval Air Squadron for the first time.
- The exercise included various operational scenarios to enhance the aircraft carrier's readiness for its global mission.
- Loading ammunition at Glen Mallan :
- Final preparations for its global deployment included loading vital supplies ahead of its visit to Liverpool.
- Crew and public engagement:
- The crew of 800 people of the ship will interact with Liverpool schools, community projects and civic leaders.
- The public will have the rare opportunity to glimpse life aboard the Portsmouth-based warship.
Visit to Liverpool: A significant return
The arrival of HMS Prince of Wales in Liverpool marks its first visit to the city since March 2020, just before the pandemic disrupted its schedule. His week-long stay highlights the Royal Navy's commitment to public engagement and operational readiness, even during ceremonial events.
Looking ahead: The role of HMS Queen Elizabeth
While HMS Prince of Wales assumes the duties of flagship, the HMS Queen Elizabeth :
- Will focus on essential training at sea.
- Will visit the port of Hamburg, Germany, reinforcing the recent UK-Germany defense agreement.
A Legacy in the Making
While the HMS Prince of Wales assumes her role as flagship, the Royal Navy begins a new chapter of maritime excellence, showcasing the power and readiness of its aircraft carrier fleet.
