The Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers, also known as CVF (Carrier Vessel Future) carriers, comprising HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales, represent the pinnacle of naval engineering for the Royal Navy. These vessels, at 65,000 tons each, are the largest warships ever built in the United Kingdom. Their design emphasizes versatility, allowing them to fulfill roles ranging from power projection and joint force operations to humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions. The carriers are a testament to British innovation, showcasing state-of-the-art technology and robust capabilities that ensure their relevance in modern naval warfare.
Construction of these ships utilized modular assembly, with sections of the carriers built in shipyards across the UK before being integrated into a cohesive whole. This approach streamlined production and allowed for the incorporation of advanced systems tailored to their unique operational requirements. The carriers’ signature twin-island design enhances operational efficiency by separating navigation and air traffic control, ensuring optimal functionality and redundancy during missions.
Design and Features
The Queen Elizabeth Class carriers are designed with a 280-meter-long flight deck, equipped with a ski-jump ramp that facilitates the operation of short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft such as the F-35B Lightning II. This capability is critical for rapid deployment and versatile air operations. Below deck, the hangar and mission spaces offer ample room for aircraft maintenance and storage, as well as the flexibility to transport vehicles, supplies, or specialized equipment depending on the mission’s requirements.
With a crew of approximately 700 sailors, the carriers can accommodate up to 1,600 personnel during air wing operations. This ensures seamless integration of naval and air capabilities while maintaining high operational tempo. The carriers are powered by an advanced integrated electric propulsion system comprising two Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbines and four diesel generators, delivering a combined output of 16 megawatts. This system not only provides propulsion but also supports the energy demands of the carriers’ advanced sensors, defensive systems, and onboard facilities.
Capabilities
The Queen Elizabeth Class is equipped to embark up to 40 aircraft, including the highly advanced F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters and Merlin helicopters. These aircraft enable the carriers to conduct a wide range of missions, from offensive airstrikes and reconnaissance to anti-submarine warfare and troop transport. To ensure robust situational awareness, the carriers are outfitted with the Artisan 3D radar system, capable of tracking thousands of airborne and surface threats simultaneously.
In terms of defense, the ships feature Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) and small-caliber guns to counter aerial and surface threats. Additionally, their hull and systems incorporate extensive measures for damage control and survivability, ensuring that the carriers remain operational even under challenging conditions.
