The Queen has welcomed the UK’s new £3.1 billion aircraft carrier into the Royal Navy fleet and declared it the “best of British”.
Accompanied by the Princess Royal, the Queen arrived on board HMS Queen Elizabeth at Portsmouth Naval Base using a specially installed lift to bring her up to the hangar for the occasion.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson also attended to witness the 65,000 tonne vessel, which was assembled in Rosyth, with some sections built in Govan, joining the fleet.
The Queen pointed out in her speech they were close to the site of HMS Victory, which reminded her of the debt the country owes the Navy over the past 500 years.
She added: “Like HMS Victory, HMS Queen Elizabeth embodies the best of British technology and innovation, a true flagship for the 21st century.
“The most powerful and capable ship ever to raise the White Ensign, she will in the years and decades ahead represent the country’s resolve on the global stage.”
She praised the service personnel who will crew the carrier and added: “As the daughter, wife and mother of naval officers, I recognise the unique demands our nation asks of you and I will always value my special link with HMS Queen Elizabeth, her ship’s company and their families.”
The ceremony was organised to commission the carrier into the fleet but the Aircraft Carrier Alliance confirmed that the Royal Navy had formally accepted the ship yesterday, meaning it had been fully handed over to the Ministry of Defence.
Mr Williamson said the commissioning ceremony “marks the start of a hugely significant chapter for the Royal Navy”.
He added: “Our new aircraft carrier is the epitome of British design and dexterity, at the core of our efforts to build an Armed Forces fit for the future.
“For the next 50 years both carriers will advance our interests around the globe, providing the most visible symbol of intent to protect the UK.”
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