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    HMS Prince of Wales: Everything To Know

    Insight NewsBy No Comments3 Mins Read
    UK's NEWEST AIRCRAFT CARRIER ARRIVES IN PORTSMOUTH HMS Prince of Wales has sailed into her homeport of Portsmouth for the first time today – marking a significant milestone in the Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier history. There was considerable fanfare as the newest of Britain’s carriers was greeted by thousands of people lining Portsmouth’s seafront. Sailors lined the flight deck of the enormous carrier – the second of the largest warships ever built for the Royal Navy – as she sailed into Portsmouth Harbour with two Hawk jets marking the moment with a flyby overhead. It is the second time in two years the city has welcomed one of the UK’s new carriers, following HMS Queen Elizabeth’s arrival in August 2017. “I feel immensely proud to be a member of HMS Prince of Wales’ ship’s company while the ship is heading into its home port for the first time,” said Air Engineering Technician Ben Daniels. “It is a historic moment for the Royal Navy and I am looking forward to many years of service on this incredible ship.” The carrier sailed from Rosyth, where she was assembled, in late September with a mixed ship’s company of Royal Navy sailors (600-plus) and 320 civilian contractors on board to take her through an autumn of trials in the North Sea. “It’s been a unique experience watching the ship transition from its initial build to an operational warship,” said Air Engineering Technician Anthony Greatorex. “It’s a proud moment to be a member of the first ship’s company and an opportunity that I am unlikely to get again.” HMS Prince of Wales’s arrival means Portsmouth Naval Base is now home to two aircraft carriers. The yard has been modernised to accommodate the two behemoths, with £30 million spent on strengthening and upgrading the base’s Victory Jetty.

    HMS Prince of Wales: History, Size, memorable Moments And Everything To Know

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    The HMS Prince of Wales, a name synonymous with British naval history, has served as a formidable force for over eight decades. From its construction during World War II to its current role as the flagship of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group, this majestic vessel has witnessed and participated in some of the most pivotal moments of the 20th and 21st centuries.

    History:

    • Launched in 1939: Built amidst the escalating tensions of World War II, the Prince of Wales served with distinction in the Mediterranean and Atlantic theaters. Notably, it participated in the sinking of the German battleship Bismarck, also a pivotal victory for the Allies.
    • Survived the Bombing of Pearl Harbor: Though damaged during the Japanese attack, the Prince of Wales managed to escape and continue its wartime service.
    • Also Post-War Service: After the war, the Prince of Wales underwent modernization and served in various capacities, including the Korean War and the Suez Crisis.
    • Decommissioned in 1979

    A New Chapter:

    • Second Coming in 2019: The legacy of the Prince of Wales was revived. With the launch of the second aircraft carrier bearing the name.
    • Flagship of the Carrier Strike Group: The current Prince of Wales serves as the centerpiece of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group. A powerful force capable of projecting military power and also conducting global operations.

    Size and Specs:

    • Length: 317 meters (1,040 feet)
    • Displacement: 65,000 tonnes
    • Complement: 1,600 personnel
    • Aircraft: Up to 40 F-35B Lightning II fighter jets and helicopters

    Memorable Moments:

    • First Operational Deployment: In 2021, the Prince of Wales embarked on its first operational deployment.  Participating in NATO exercises and also conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea.
    • Queen Elizabeth’s Visit: In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II visited the Prince of Wales. Also marking a significant moment in the ship’s history and highlighting its importance to the nation.

    The Prince of Wales saw action in some of history’s most significant conflicts, leaving her mark on the world stage:

    • World War II: Played a pivotal role in the Battle of the Mediterranean, the sinking of the German battleship Bismarck, and the defense of Malaya.
    • Also Korean War: Provided naval gunfire support for UN forces.
    • Falklands War: Served as the flagship of the British Task Force.

    Beyond the Battles:

    • Modernization: Throughout her illustrious career, the Prince of Wales underwent several refits and upgrades, showcasing adaptability and resilience.
    • Decommissioning and Preservation: Decommissioned in 1992, she also faced the threat of scrapping. Before being saved by a charitable trust and preserved as a museum ship in Portsmouth, England.
    • A Popular Tourist Destination: Today, the Prince of Wales welcomes visitors to explore her decks. Learn about her rich history, and step back in time to witness maritime might firsthand.
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