:Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier

In May 1997, the newly elected Labour government led by Tony Blair launched the Strategic Defence Review, which re-evaluated every weapon system, then active or in procurement, with the exception of the Eurofighter Typhoon and the {{sclass|Vanguard|submarine|0}} ballistic missile submarines. The report, published in July 1998, stated that aircraft carriers offer:{{cite web|url=http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/65F3D7AC-4340-4119-93A2-20825848E50E/0/sdr1998_complete.pdf |title=Strategic Defence Review |access-date=8 July 2008 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |pages=143–144 |date=July 1998 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110326175735/http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/65F3D7AC-4340-4119-93A2-20825848E50E/0/sdr1998_complete.pdf |archive-date=26 March 2011}}

• The ability to operate offensive aircraft overseas, when foreign bases may not be available early in a conflict
• All required space and infrastructure, as even where foreign bases are available infrastructure is often lacking
• A coercive and deterrent effect when deployed to a trouble spot

The report concluded: "the emphasis is now on increased offensive airpower, and an ability to operate the largest possible range of aircraft in the widest possible range of roles. When the current carrier force reaches the end of its planned life, we plan to replace it with two larger vessels. Work will now begin to refine our requirements but present thinking suggests that they might be of the order of 30,000–40,000 tonnes and capable of deploying up to 50 aircraft, including helicopters."

Initial Ministry of Defence (MoD) design studies for what was then the Invincible class replacement were conducted in the mid-1990s.Eddison, J.F.P., Groom, J.P., 'Innovation in the CV(F) - An Aircraft Carrier for the 21st Century', in RINA Warship '97 Conference ('Air Power at Sea'), Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA), 1997 Options considered at this early stage included the possibilities of lengthening the hulls and extending the life of the existing Invincible class ships, converting commercial ships to carriers, and the construction of purpose-built new aircraft carriers.Campbell-Roddis, M.E., 'Hullform & Hydrodynamic Considerations in the Design of the UK Future Aircraft Carrier (CVF)', in RINA Transactions Part A4 2017, Royal Institution of Naval Architects, December 2017

On 25 January 1999, six companies were invited to tender for the assessment phase of the project – Boeing, British Aerospace (BAe), Lockheed Martin, Marconi Electronic Systems, Raytheon and Thomson-CSF.{{cite news |first=Alexander |last=Nicoll |title=US companies bid for $2.5bn ships deal |work=Financial Times |date = 26 January 1999}} On 23 November 1999, the MoD awarded detailed assessment studies to two consortia, one led by BAe (renamed BAE Systems on 30 November 1999) and one led by Thomson-CSF (renamed Thales Group in 2000). The brief required up to six designs from each consortium with air-groups of thirty to forty Future Joint Combat Aircraft (FJCA). The contracts were split into phases; the first £5.9 million phase was for design assessment which would form part of the aircraft selection, while the second £23.5 million phase involved "risk reduction on the preferred carrier design option".{{cite news|title=Shipyard in running for Navy contract |work=The Belfast Telegraph|date=24 November 1999}}

In 2005 BMT announced it had tested 4 different CVF hull form models and assessed them for propulsion efficiency, maneuverability, seakeeping and noise signatures. It also investigated skeg length, rudder size, transom stern flaps and bulbous bow designs. The basic Delta concept went through many further iterations and development before the design was considered sufficiently mature by late 2006 for detailed cost estimates to be drawn up prior to ordering long-lead items.{{cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/development-of-the-queen-elizabeth-class-aircraft-carrier-a-design-history/|title=Development of the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier – a design history|publisher=navylookout.com|date=2 October 2018|access-date=19 May 2022}}

The vessels, described as "supercarriers" by the media, legislators and sometimes by the Royal Navy,Supercarriers:

• [http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2011/May/27/110527-Steel-cut-for-second-super-carrier Steel cut for second super-carrier | Royal Navy] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140306231744/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2011/May/27/110527-Steel-cut-for-second-super-carrier |date=6 March 2014 }}
• {{cite web |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmordbk1/30908w01.htm |title=Order Book Part 1: Written Questions |work=House of Commons |date=8 September 2003 |access-date=13 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150613194515/http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmordbk1/30908w01.htm |archive-date=13 June 2015 |url-status=live }}
• {{Cite Hansard |house=House of Lords |title=Armed Forces |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmhansrd/vo030130/debtext/30130-10.htm#30130-10_head0 |date=15 March 2007 |column_start=879 |column_end=881 |speaker=Lord Luke |access-date=31 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201044009/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmhansrd/vo030130/debtext/30130-10.htm#30130-10_head0 |archive-date=1 December 2017 |url-status=live }}
• [http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/April/10/120410-Queens-Elizabeth Giant piece of HMS Queen Elizabeth jigsaw slots into place | Royal Navy] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120516215611/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/April/10/120410-Queens-Elizabeth |date=16 May 2012 }}
• {{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/huge-sections-of-new-navy-carrier-joined-together--2 |title=Huge sections of new Navy carrier joined together |work=Ministry of Defence |date=11 April 2012 |access-date=13 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208144207/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/huge-sections-of-new-navy-carrier-joined-together--2 |archive-date=8 December 2015 |url-status=live }}
• {{cite news|title=Go-ahead given for work to start on supercarriers|date=20 May 2008 |work=Portsmouth News |url=http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/hands-off-our-base/Goahead-given-for-work-to.4099975.jp|access-date=23 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122080439/http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/hands-off-our-base/Goahead-given-for-work-to.4099975.jp |archive-date=22 January 2009|url-status=dead}} have a full load displacement of an estimated {{Convert|80600|t}} each, over three times the displacement of its predecessor, the {{sclass|Invincible|aircraft carrier|4}}. They are the largest warships ever built in the United Kingdom.{{cite web|title=HMS Queen Elizabeth |work=Wärtsilä |url=http://www.wartsila.com/en/references/HMS-Queen-Elizabeth|access-date=5 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111113020239/http://www.wartsila.com/en/references/HMS-Queen-Elizabeth |archive-date=13 November 2011|url-status=dead}} The last large carriers proposed for the Royal Navy, the CVA-01 programme, were cancelled by the Labour government in the 1966 Defence White Paper.{{cite journal |url=http://www.naval-review.co.uk/issues/1999-1.pdf |title=Carrier 2000: A Consideration of Naval Aviation in the Millennium – I |author=James, D. R. |journal=The Naval Review |date=January 1999 |volume=87 |issue=1 |page=3 |access-date=1 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426045355/http://www.naval-review.co.uk/issues/1999-1.pdf |archive-date=26 April 2012 |url-status=live}} In November 2004 First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Alan West explained that the sortie rate and interoperability with the United States Navy were factors in deciding on the size of the carriers and the composition of the carriers' air-wings:

{{Blockquote|The reason that we have arrived at what we have arrived at is because to do the initial strike package, that deep strike package, we have done really quite detailed calculations and we have come out with the figure of 36 joint strike fighters, and that is what has driven the size of it, and that is to be able to deliver the weight of effort that you need for these operations that we are planning in the future. That is the thing that has made us arrive at that size of deck and that size of ship, to enable that to happen. I think it is something like 75 sorties per day over the five-day period or something like that as well... I have talked with the CNO (Chief of Naval Operations) in America. He is very keen for us to get these because he sees us slotting in with his carrier groups. For example, in Afghanistan last year they had to call on the French to bail them out with their carrier. He really wants us to have these, but he wants us to have the same sort of clout as one of their carriers, which is this figure at 36. He would find that very useful, and really we would mix and match with that.|Admiral Sir Alan West, evidence to the Select Committee on Defence, 24 November 2004{{Cite Hansard|access-date=30 December 2011 |house=House of Commons questions 540 – 559 |date=24 November 2004|title=Examination of Witnesses |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200405/cmselect/cmdfence/45/4112404.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111127114042/http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200405/cmselect/cmdfence/45/4112404.htm|archive-date=27 November 2011|url-status=dead}}}}

On 17 January 2001, the UK signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States Department of Defense (DoD) for full participation in the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme, confirming the JSF as the FJCA.{{cite web| url=http://www.defense.gov/transcripts/transcript.aspx?transcriptid=883| title=Signing of U.S./U.K. Memorandum of Understanding on the Joint Strike Fighter| date=17 January 2001| work=U.S. Department of Defense| access-date=1 January 2012| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110529184734/http://www.defense.gov/transcripts/transcript.aspx?transcriptid=883| archive-date=29 May 2011| url-status=dead}} This gave the UK input into aircraft design and the choice between the Lockheed Martin X-35 and Boeing X-32. On 26 October 2001, the DoD announced that Lockheed Martin had won the JSF contract.{{cite web|access-date=1 January 2012 |last=Bolkcom |first=Christopher |publisher=CRS Report for Congress |title=JSF Background, Status, and Issues |url=https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA472773.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121202052544/http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?Location=U2&doc=GetTRDoc.pdf&AD=ADA472773 |archive-date=2 December 2012}}

On 30 September 2002, the MoD announced that the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force would operate the STOVL F-35B variant and that the carriers would take the form of large, conventional carriers, initially adapted for STOVL operations. The carriers, expected to remain in service for fifty years, were designed for but not with catapults and arrestor wires. The carriers were thus planned to be "future proof", allowing them to operate a generation of CATOBAR aircraft beyond the F-35.{{Cite Hansard |house=House of Commons |title=Future Aircraft Carrier |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmhansrd/vo030130/debtext/30130-10.htm#30130-10_head0 |date=30 January 2003 |column_start=1026 |column_end=1028 |speaker=Geoffrey Hoon |position=Secretary of State for Defence |access-date=31 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201044009/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmhansrd/vo030130/debtext/30130-10.htm#30130-10_head0 |archive-date=1 December 2017 |url-status=live}} The contract specified that any conversion would use US C-13 steam catapults and Mark 7 Arresting gear as used by the American {{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|0}} carriers.{{Harvnb|Hobbs|2013|p=344}} Four months later on 30 January 2003, the Defence Secretary, Geoff Hoon, announced that the Thales Group design had won the competition but that BAE Systems would operate as prime contractor.

The Secretary of State for Defence announced the intention to proceed with the procurement of the carriers in July 2007.{{Cite Hansard |house=House of Commons |title=CSR and Aircraft Carriers |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmhansrd/cm070725/debtext/70725-0007.htm#07072570000993 |date=25 July 2007 |column_start=865 |column_end=867 |speaker=Des Browne |position=Secretary of State for Defence |access-date=31 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910220556/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmhansrd/cm070725/debtext/70725-0007.htm#07072570000993 |archive-date=10 September 2017 |url-status=live}} The contracts were officially signed one year later on 3 July 2008, after the creation of BVT Surface Fleet through the merger of BAE Systems Surface Fleet Solutions and VT Group's VT Shipbuilding which was a requirement of the UK Government.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/7483942.stm |title=New contract 'will secure Rosyth' |last=Keane |first=Kevin |publisher=BBC |date=3 July 2008 |access-date=3 July 2008 | location=London}}

{{main|Strategic Defence and Security Review 2010}}

On 19 October 2010, the government announced the results of its Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR). The review stated that only one carrier was certain to be commissioned; the fate of the other was left undecided. The second ship of the class could be placed in "extended readiness" to provide a continuous single carrier strike capability when the other was in refit or provide the option to regenerate more quickly to a two carrier strike ability. Alternatively, the second ship could be sold in "cooperation with a close ally to provide continuous carrier-strike capability".{{cite web |url=http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/resources/Factsheet9-Carrier-Strike.pdf |title=Fact Sheet 9: Carrier Strike|date=19 October 2010|publisher=HM Government |access-date=27 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120817213607/http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/resources/Factsheet9-Carrier-Strike.pdf|archive-date=17 August 2012|url-status=live}}

It was also announced that the operational carrier would have catapult and arrestor gear (CATOBAR) installed to accommodate the carrier variant of the F-35 rather than the short-take off and vertical-landing version.{{cite web |url=http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_191634.pdf |title=Securing Britain in an Age of Uncertainty: The Strategic Defence and Security Review |date=19 October 2010 |publisher=HM Government |access-date=19 October 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101222022127/http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/%40dg/%40en/documents/digitalasset/dg_191634.pdf |archive-date=22 December 2010}} It was decided to use the next-generation Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) catapult and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) instead of the more conventional systems which the design had originally been specified to be compatible with.{{harvnb|Hobbs|2013|p=345}}

The decision to convert Prince of Wales to CATOBAR was reviewed after the projected costs rose to around double the original estimate. On 10 May 2012, the Defence Secretary, Philip Hammond, announced in Parliament that the government had decided to revert to its predecessor's plans to purchase the F-35B rather than the F-35C, and to complete both aircraft carriers with ski-jumps in the STOVL configuration. MoD sources indicated that the cost of installing EMALS and AAG on Prince of Wales would have risen to £2 billion, of which about £450 million of which was the cost of the equipment and the remainder the cost of installation. The total cost of the work that had been done on the conversion to a CATOBAR configuration, and of reverting the design to the original STOVL configuration, was estimated by Philip Hammond to be "something in the order of £100 million".{{cite web |url= http://fullfact.org/articles/how_do_you_solve_a_problem_like_an_expensive_aircraft_carrier-27178 |publisher=fullfact.org |access-date=20 May 2012 |author=Bentley, Matt |date=11 May 2012 |title=How do you solve a problem like an expensive aircraft carrier? |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120630092904/http://fullfact.org/articles/how_do_you_solve_a_problem_like_an_expensive_aircraft_carrier-27178 |archive-date=30 June 2012 |url-status=live}} In later testimony before a parliamentary committee, Bernard Gray, Chief of Defence Materiel, revealed that even though the carriers had been sold as adaptable and easy to convert for CATOBAR, no serious effort had been made in this direction since 2002.{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/02/06/defence_committee_carrier_badness/|title=The truth on the Navy carrier debacle? Industry got away with murder|first1=Lewis|last1=Page|work=The Register|access-date=7 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161111125058/http://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/02/06/defence_committee_carrier_badness//|archive-date=11 November 2016|url-status=live}}

{{main|Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015}}

On 23 November 2015, the government published its 2015 SDSR which confirmed its plans to bring into service both Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, with one to be available at all times.{{cite web|title=National Security Strategy and Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|publisher=HM Government|access-date=17 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124082813/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|archive-date=24 November 2015|url-status=live}} The review also confirmed that one of the carriers would have enhanced amphibious capabilities. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to ordering 138 F-35 Lightning IIs, although the specific variant(s) was not mentioned. The review stated that 24 of these aircraft would be available to the aircraft carriers by 2023.

On 24 May 2023 during the 'Combined Naval Event 2023' conference in Farnborough 'Project Ark Royal' was announced. This project would "explore the widespread fielding of uncrewed aviation across the surface fleet, with a specific focus on future carrier aviation"{{Cite web |last=Scott |first=Richard |date=2023-06-01 |title=UK explores cats and traps retrofit to QEC aircraft carriers |url=https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/cne-2023/2023/06/uk-project-ark-royal-catapult-aircraft-carriers/ |access-date=2023-06-19 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}} The purpose of the project was to enable the operation of high-performance unmanned strike and support systems and potentially fixed-wing aircraft through the phased introduction of aircraft launch and recovery equipment for those types of aircraft.{{Cite web |last=Leone |first=Dario |date=2023-06-10 |title=Royal Navy Considering Adding Catapults, Arresting Gear to Queen Elizabeth-class Aircraft Carriers to operate F/A-18E/F, F-35C, Rafale and high performance uncrewed strike and support systems |url=https://theaviationgeekclub.com/royal-navy-considering-adding-catapults-arresting-gear-to-queen-elizabeth-class-aircraft-carriers-to-operate-f-a-18e-f-f-35c-rafale-and-high-performance-uncrewed-strike-and-support-systems/ |access-date=2023-06-19 |website=The Aviation Geek Club |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |last=Network |first=MI News |date=2023-06-09 |title=U.K Considers Refitting Its Aircraft Carriers With Catapults, Arresting Wires |url=https://www.marineinsight.com/videos/u-k-considers-refitting-its-aircraft-carriers-with-catapults-arresting-wires/ |access-date=2023-06-19 |website=Marine Insight |language=en-US}} This phased implementation was described by Colonel Phil Kelly, Head of the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike and Maritime Aviation as "moving from STOVL (short take off vertical landing) to STOL (short takeoff and landing), then to STOBAR (Short takeoff but arrested recovery) and then to CATOBAR (catapult assisted takeoff but arrested recovery)". These changes would necessitate the eventual installation of catapults, arrestor gear and an angled flight deck as previously envisioned in the 2010 Strategic Defense and Security Review with the carriers having been built for but not with this capability.{{Cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=2023-06-02 |title=Royal Navy Wants To Refit Its Carriers With Catapults, Arresting Wires |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/royal-navy-wants-to-refit-its-carriers-with-catapults-arresting-wires |access-date=2023-06-19 |website=The Drive |language=en}}

File:USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) & HMS Illustrious (R 06).jpg

The ships' company is 679, rising to 1,600 when the air crew is added.{{cite web |website=Aircraft Carrier Alliance|title=The Queen Elizabeth Class|access-date=29 December 2011 |url=http://www.aircraftcarrieralliance.co.uk/en/the-ships/the-queen-elizabeth-class.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125062327/http://aircraftcarrieralliance.co.uk/en/the-ships/the-queen-elizabeth-class.aspx|archive-date=25 January 2013|url-status=live}} In April 2015 a parliamentary reply stated that the average crew size would be 672.{{cite web |url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2014-10-15/210756/ |last=Soames |first=Nicholas |date=15 October 2014 |title=Aircraft Carriers: Written question – No. 210756 |work=House of Commons |access-date=13 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031160617/http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2014-10-15/210756/ |archive-date=31 October 2014 |url-status=live}} The ships have an empty load displacement of 65,000 tonnes on delivery, with an estimated full load displacement of 80,600 tonnes as the ships are upgraded through their lifetime.{{cite web|date=19 March 2017 |url=https://www.wired.co.uk/article/navy-queen-elizabeth-warship|title=Replacing the Invincibles: inside the Royal Navy's controversial £6.2 billion warships |publisher=wired.co.uk|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904111341/https://www.wired.co.uk/article/navy-queen-elizabeth-warship|archive-date=4 September 2017}}{{cite news |url=http://www.theengineer.co.uk/military-and-defence/in-depth/your-questions-answered-hms-queen-elizabeth-aircraft-carrier/1018614.article |title=Your questions answered: HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier|first=Stephen |last=Harris|newspaper=The Engineer|date=27 May 2014|access-date=7 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625125207/http://www.theengineer.co.uk/military-and-defence/in-depth/your-questions-answered-hms-queen-elizabeth-aircraft-carrier/1018614.article |archive-date=25 June 2014|url-status=live}} They have an overall length of {{convert|284|m}}, a width of {{convert|73|m}}, a height of {{convert|56|m}}, a draught of {{convert|11|m}}, and a range of {{convert|10000|nmi|mi km}}.{{cite web |publisher=Royal Navy|access-date=31 December 2011 |title=Facts and figures |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Future-Ships/Queen-Elizabeth-Class/Facts-and-Figures|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119091625/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Future-Ships/Queen-Elizabeth-Class/Facts-and-Figures |archive-date=19 January 2012}} Nuclear propulsion was rejected due to its high cost and manpower required in favour of Integrated Electric Propulsion consisting of two Rolls-Royce Marine Trent MT30 {{convert|36|MW|hp|abbr=on}} gas turbine generator units and four Wärtsilä diesel generator sets (two {{convert|9|MW|hp|abbr=on|disp=or}} and two {{convert|11|MW|hp|abbr=on|disp=or}}).{{Cite web|first=George|last=Allison|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/myths-surrounding-queen-elizabeth-class-aircraft-carriers/|title=The myths surrounding the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers|work=UK Defence Journal|date=28 November 2017|access-date=21 June 2021|archive-date=3 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703014646/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/myths-surrounding-queen-elizabeth-class-aircraft-carriers/|url-status=dead}} The Trents and diesels are the largest ever supplied to the Royal Navy, and together they feed the low-voltage electrical systems as well as four GE Power Conversion's 20 MW electric propulsion motors that drive the twin fixed-pitch propellers.

Instead of a single island superstructure containing both the ships' navigation bridges and flying control (FLYCO) centres, the ships have these operations divided between two structures, with the forward island for navigation and the aft island for controlling flying operations.{{cite web|access-date=30 December 2011|work=Naval Technology|title=Queen Elizabeth Class (CVF), United Kingdom|url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/cvf/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108014215/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/cvf |archive-date=8 January 2012|url-status=live}} The primary reason for having twin islands was to space out the funnels, as the ships were designed with redundancy with "duplicated main and secondary machinery in two complexes with independent uptakes and downtakes in each of the two islands", while the alternative of consolidating all the exhaust trunkings would have reduced hangar space as well as increasing the vulnerability to flooding. Additional benefits include easier construction, reduced wind turbulence, and freed up deck space. Using two structures provides separate mountings for the air surveillance radar (forward), which does not interfere with the medium-range radar (aft); furthermore, visibility is improved for both navigation and landing operations.{{cite web |url=http://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/the-reasons-hms-queen-elizabeth-has-two-islands/ |title=The reasons HMS Queen Elizabeth has two islands |work=Navy Lookout |date=14 August 2017 |access-date=15 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170815075104/http://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/the-reasons-hms-queen-elizabeth-has-two-islands/ |archive-date=15 August 2017 |url-status=live}}

Under the flight deck are a further nine decks.{{cite web|access-date=30 December 2011|work=Defence News|title=First steel cut for new aircraft carrier |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/FirstSteelCutForNewAircraftCarrier.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106125735/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/FirstSteelCutForNewAircraftCarrier.htm|archive-date=6 January 2012|url-status=live}} The hangar deck measures {{convert|155|by|33.5|m}} with a height of {{convert|6.7|to|10|m}}, large enough to accommodate up to twenty fixed and rotary wing aircraft. To transfer aircraft from the hangar to the flight deck, the ships have two large lifts, each of which is capable of lifting two F-35Bs or one CH-47 Chinook from the hangar to the flight deck in sixty seconds.{{cite web|url=http://www.aircraftcarrieralliance.co.uk/~/media/Files/A/Aircraft-Carrier-Alliance/PDF/key-facts.pdf|title=Key facts|website=Aircraft Carrier Alliance|access-date=30 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107014309/http://www.aircraftcarrieralliance.co.uk/~/media/Files/A/Aircraft-Carrier-Alliance/PDF/key-facts.pdf|archive-date=7 January 2016|url-status=live}} The ships' only announced self-defence weapons are currently the Phalanx CIWS for airborne threats and Browning .50 caliber heavy machine guns. The planned 30 mm cannon to counter seaborne threats are currently fitted for but not with {{as of|2021|lc=on}}.

The ship's radars are the BAE Systems/Thales S1850M for long-range wide-area search,{{cite web|title=S1850M Long Range Radar |url=https://www.baesystems.com/en/product/s1850m-long-range-radar |access-date=2020-12-01}} the BAE Systems Artisan 3D Type 997 maritime medium-range active electronically scanned array radar, and a navigation radar.{{cite web |url=http://www.baesystems.com/BAEProd/groups/public/documents/bae_publication/bae_pdf_qec_datasheet.pdf |publisher=BAE Systems|title=Weapons and sensors |access-date=30 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107014309/http://www.baesystems.com/BAEProd/groups/public/documents/bae_publication/bae_pdf_qec_datasheet.pdf|archive-date=7 January 2016|url-status=dead}} BAE claims the S1850M has a fully automatic detection and track initiation that can track up to 1,000 air targets at a range of around {{convert|400|km}}.{{cite web|access-date=31 December 2011|publisher=BAE Systems |url=http://www.baesystems.com/Businesses/MISSIONSYSTEMS/ProductsandServices/NavalRadar/S1850MLongRangeRadar/index.htm|title=S1850M Long Range Radar|archive-date=6 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106195607/http://baesystems.com/Businesses/MISSIONSYSTEMS/ProductsandServices/NavalRadar/S1850MLongRangeRadar/index.htm|url-status=dead}} Artisan can "track a target the size of a snooker ball over {{convert|20|km}} away", with a maximum range of 200 km.{{cite web|url=http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/123512-artisan-3d-the-new-military-radar-capable-of-detecting-a-tennis-ball-moving-at-three-times-the-speed-of-sound|title=The new military radar capable of detecting a tennis ball moving at three times the speed of sound |publisher=Pocket Lint|access-date=7 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714131640/http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/123512-artisan-3d-the-new-military-radar-capable-of-detecting-a-tennis-ball-moving-at-three-times-the-speed-of-sound |archive-date=14 July 2014|url-status=live}} They will also be fitted with the Ultra Electronics Series 2500 Electro Optical System (EOS) and Glide Path Camera (GPC).{{cite news | url=http://www.ultra-ccs.com/about/news/details.php?id=33 | publisher=Ultra Electronics | title=Ultra Electronics Wins Contract for EO Systems for Queen Elizabeth Class Carriers | date=9 August 2010 | access-date=21 August 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929075259/http://www.ultra-ccs.com/about/news/details.php?id=33 | archive-date=29 September 2011 | url-status=live}}

Munitions and ammunition handling is accomplished using a Babcock designed highly mechanised weapons handling system (HMWHS).{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-F8HFrB8b-0|title=HMWHS, HMS Queen Elizabeth|date=7 December 2018 |via=www.youtube.com}} This is the first naval application of a common land-based warehouse system. The HMWHS moves palletised munitions from the magazines and weapon preparation areas, along trackways and via several lifts, forward and aft or port and starboard. The tracks can carry a pallet to magazines, the hangar, weapons preparation areas, and the flight deck. In a change from normal procedures the magazines are unmanned, the movement of pallets is controlled from a central location, and manpower is only required when munitions are being initially stored or prepared for use. This system speeds up delivery and reduces the size of the crew by automation.{{cite web|access-date=3 January 2011|publisher=Professional Engineering Magazine|title=Weapons handling system for the new aircraft carrier begins to take shape|url=http://profeng.com/tech/weapons-handling-system-for-the-new-aircraft-carrier-begins-to-take-shape|date=15 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110123141316/http://profeng.com/tech/weapons-handling-system-for-the-new-aircraft-carrier-begins-to-take-shape|archive-date=23 January 2011|url-status=dead}}

Crew facilities include a cinema, five physical fitness areas (gyms),{{cite web |url = https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/surface-fleet/aircraft-carriers/hms-queen-elizabeth |title = HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) |publisher = The Royal Navy |access-date = 20 September 2020 }} a chapel (with embarked naval chaplain),{{cite web |url = https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/hms-queen-elizabeth-why-does-chaplain-carries-branch-while-board-royal-navy-carrier-1315118 |title = HMS Queen Elizabeth: Why does the chaplain carries a branch while on-board Royal Navy carrier? |last= Mohan-Hickson|first= Matthew|date= 27 October 2019|publisher = "The News" (Portsmouth News) |location= Portsmouth|access-date = 20 September 2020 }} and four galleys manned by sixty-seven catering staff. There are four large dining areas, the largest with the capacity to serve 960 meals in one hour. There are eleven medical staff for the eight-bed medical facility, which includes an operating theatre and a dental surgery. There are 1,600 bunks in 470 cabins, including accommodation for a company of 250 Royal Marines with wide access routes up to the flight deck.{{cite news |title=Asset management |newspaper=Navy News |page=8 |date=December 2013 |first=Richard |last=Hargreaves |access-date=3 January 2014 |url=http://content.yudu.com/Library/A2lnzy/201312NavyNewsDec13/resources/8.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103200932/http://content.yudu.com/Library/A2lnzy/201312NavyNewsDec13/resources/8.htm |archive-date=3 January 2014 |url-status=live}}

Only one carrier will have a carrier air wing embarked at any one time. In peacetime, 12 - 24 F-35Bs will be embarked. This will rise to 36 F-35Bs during combat operations, with the ability to operate 48 in extreme circumstances. The ships have a sortie generation rate of up to 110 per day.{{cite web |title=HMS Queen Elizabeth: Commemorating First Entry into Her Home Port |url=https://issuu.com/faircountmedia/docs/hms_queen_elizabeth |website=issuu |date=3 October 2017 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |access-date=27 October 2021}} Fourteen Merlin HM2 will be available with typically nine in anti-submarine configuration and four or five with Crowsnest for airborne early warning;{{citation needed|date=December 2020}} alternatively a "littoral manoeuvre" package could include a mix of Royal Navy Commando Helicopter Force Merlin HC4, Wildcat AH1, RAF Chinook transports, and Army Air Corps Apache attack helicopters.{{cite web | url=http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/awx_09_11_2013_p0-615007.xml | title=UK Royal Navy Widening Scope of Carrier Use | first=Anthony | last=Osborne | date=11 September 2013 | work=Aviation Week |access-date=31 July 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116110305/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fawx_09_11_2013_p0-615007.xml | archive-date=16 January 2014 | url-status=live}} {{As of|September 2013}} six landing spots are planned, but the deck could be marked out for the operation of ten medium helicopters at once, allowing the lift of a company of 250 troops. The hangars are designed for operating Chinooks without blade folding and the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey tiltrotor; the two aircraft lifts can each accommodate a Chinook with unfolded blades.{{cite news | url=http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/awx_08_30_2013_p0-611847.xml&p=2 |title=UK Builds Fleet of Modernized Chinooks | first=Anthony | last=Osborne | work=Aviation Week | date=30 August 2013 |access-date=31 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116110314/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fawx_08_30_2013_p0-611847.xml&p=2 | archive-date=16 January 2014 | url-status=live}}

The use of UAVs and UCAVs is currently being explored by the Royal Navy. In November 2023, the General Atomics Mojave UAV successfully launched and recovered from HMS Prince of Wales, the first time a fixed wing RPAS had done so. {{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/mojave-uncrewed-air-system-successfully-flown-from-hms-prince-of-wales/ |title=Mojave uncrewed air system successfully flown from HMS Prince of Wales |work=Navy Lookout |date=22 November 2023 |access-date=29 November 2024}}

Although the size of the Queen Elizabeth class would enable it to accommodate most current and projected carrier-based fixed-wing aircraft, the lack of arresting gear means that, as initially completed, it is only capable of operating either STOVL aircraft, such as F-35B Lightning, tiltrotors such as the Osprey, or aircraft that do not require either catapult-assisted take-off or arrested recovery.

{{main |Joint Combat Aircraft|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II}}

File:Carrier Sea Training MOD 45166691.jpg

With the retirement of the Harrier GR7 and GR9 in 2010, there remained no carrier-capable fixed-wing aircraft available to the Royal Navy or Royal Air Force.{{cite web|access-date=30 December 2011|publisher=Defence News|title=Last Harrier takes off from HMS Ark Royal |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/LastHarrierJetLaunchFromHmsArkRoyal.htm|date=24 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206105605/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/LastHarrierJetLaunchFromHmsArkRoyal.htm|archive-date=6 December 2011|url-status=live}} Their replacement is the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II.{{cite web|access-date=30 December 2011 |publisher=Defence News|title=RAF test pilot on Lightning II |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/PeopleInDefence/RafTestPilotOnLightningIi.htm|date=12 August 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206141249/http://mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/PeopleInDefence/RafTestPilotOnLightningIi.htm|archive-date=6 December 2011|url-status=live}}

After the 2010 SDSR Review the government intended to purchase the F-35C carrier variant and modify one carrier to use the CATOBAR system to launch and recover these aircraft. This was because the cheaper F-35C variant has a greater range and can carry a larger and more diverse payload than the F-35B.{{cite web|access-date=30 December 2011|publisher=Flightglobal|date=19 October 2010 |last=Hoyle|first=Craig |title=Cameron: UK to swap JSFs to carrier variant, axe Harrier and Nimrod |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cameron-uk-to-swap-jsfs-to-carrier-variant-axe-harrier-and-nimrod-348641/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120319051926/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cameron-uk-to-swap-jsfs-to-carrier-variant-axe-harrier-and-nimrod-348641/|archive-date=19 March 2012|url-status=live}}{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120514055457/http://www.sharkeysworld.com/2012/04/choice-of-aircraft-for-our-pocket-super.html "The Choice of Aircraft for our Pocket Super Carriers"]}} Sharkey's world, 3 April 2012. Retrieved 12 May 2012. On 10 May 2012 the Defence Secretary Philip Hammond announced in Parliament that the government had decided to revert to its predecessor's plans to purchase the F-35B rather than the F-35C, and to abandon the completion of Prince of Wales in a CATOBAR configuration.{{cite web |url= http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/May/10/120509-F35B |title= Defence Secretary Announces Decision on Jets for Navy's Future Carriers |work= News and Events |publisher= Royal Navy |date= 10 May 2012 |access-date=10 May 2012 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120513102839/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/May/10/120509-F35B |archive-date= 13 May 2012}} The reason given was that "conversion to 'cats and traps' will cost about double what was originally estimated – and would not be delivered until 2023 at the earliest". Although the F-35B is fully capable of performing vertical landing, in a similar fashion to the way that the Harrier and Sea Harrier operated, this method of operation places limitations on the loads that the aircraft is capable of returning to the ship with. As a consequence, to avoid the costly disposal at sea of both fuel and munitions, the Royal Navy is developing the Shipborne rolling vertical landing (SRVL) technique for its operation of the Lightning II. SRVL is a hybrid landing technique that uses the Lightning's vectored thrust capability to slow its forward speed to around 70 knots to allow it to make a rolling landing, using its disc brakes, without the need of an arrestor wire.{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-gets-funds-for-uk-f-35-landing-modification-348294/ |title=Lockheed gets funds for UK F-35 landing modification |publisher=Flightglobal |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130519170613/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-gets-funds-for-uk-f-35-landing-modification-348294/ |archive-date=19 May 2013 |url-status=live}} A special type of metallic 'thermal paint' is being developed to withstand temperatures of up to 1,500 °C in the vicinity of jet nozzles.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/stem-awards/defence-technology/thermal-paint-for-aircraft-carriers/|title=Bringing the technology from the factory to the ship has been demanding|author=Helena Pozniak|work=The Daily Telegraph|date=5 December 2016|access-date=10 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161208080755/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/stem-awards/defence-technology/thermal-paint-for-aircraft-carriers/|archive-date=8 December 2016|url-status=live}}

On 19 July 2012, Hammond indicated in a speech in the United States that the UK would order an initial 48 F-35B aircraft to be operated jointly by the Royal Air Force and Fleet Air Arm.{{cite web|access-date=30 December 2011|publisher=Royal Navy|title=UK's first next-generation fighter|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2011/November/23/111123-HW-F35-Carrier|date=23 November 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111226102448/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2011/November/23/111123-HW-F35-Carrier|archive-date=26 December 2011|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.janes.com/products/janes/defence-security-report.aspx?id=1065969970 |title=UK slashes F-35B numbers but might look to split buy with F-35As |first=Robert |last=Hewson |date=27 July 2012 |newspaper=Jane's |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530164056/http://www.janes.com/products/janes/defence-security-report.aspx?id=1065969970 |archive-date=30 May 2013}} In November 2015, the government announced its commitment to an order of 138 F-35 aircraft, with 24 available for carrier duties by 2023. The 2021 defence white paper sharply reduced the envisaged total number of aircraft to be purchased to "beyond 48". Subsequently, the First Sea Lord indicated that the new envisaged number was to be 60 aircraft initially and "then maybe more", up to a maximum of around 80 to hopefully equip four "deployable squadrons".{{Cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-looking-at-60-maybe-up-to-around-80-f-35b-jets/ |title=UK looking at '60 and then maybe up to 80′ F-35B jets|first=George |last=Allison |date=23 March 2021}} In April 2022, the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Richard Knighton, told the House of Commons Defence Select Committee that the MoD was in discussions to purchase a second tranche of 26 F-35B fighters. Subsequent reports suggested that this second tranche order would only be completed in 2033.{{cite news |last=Martin |first=Tim |date=2 December 2022 |title=UK industry officials raise eyebrows over Royal Air Force F-35, E-7 and A400M programs |work=Breaking Defence |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2022/12/uk-industry-officials-raise-eyebrows-over-royal-air-force-f-35-e-7-and-a400m-programs/#:~:text=A%20spokesperson%20for%20Lockheed%20Martin,2025%2C%20according%20to%20the%20spokesperson. |access-date=26 March 2023}}

Plans for frontline F-35B squadrons had been modified and now envisaged a total of three squadrons (rather than four) each deploying 12 to 16 aircraft. In surge conditions 24 F-35s might be deployed on a carrier but a routine deployment would likely involve 12 aircraft.{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/uk-to-purchase-at-least-74-f-35-jets/ |title=UK to purchase at least 74 F-35 jets |work=Navy Lookout |date=27 April 2022 |access-date=29 April 2022}}

In December 2016, the British Government announced that it reached an agreement with the United States to allow the deployment of USMC F-35s from Queen Elizabeth upon the ship's entry into service, with a reciprocal arrangement seeing RAF and FAA aircraft operating from ships of the US Navy.{{cite web|last1=Chuter|first1=Andrew|title=US Marine F-35B Fighter Jet Deployment Onboard British Warship Made Official|url=http://www.defensenews.com/articles/us-marine-f-35b-fighter-jet-deployment-onboard-british-warship-made-official|website=Defense News|access-date=28 April 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170428012206/http://www.defensenews.com/articles/us-marine-f-35b-fighter-jet-deployment-onboard-british-warship-made-official|archive-date=28 April 2017|date=16 December 2016|url-status=dead}}

Currently, UK F-35B's are set to be integrated with a number of UK weapon systems. MBDA's Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) and long range Meteor missiles will be used for air-to-air engagements. Up-to two ASRAAMs can be carried on the outermost external weapon stations, whilst up-to four Meteors can be carried internally when in a stealth configuration, with mock-ups showing an additional four meteors can be mounted externally in a 'Beast Mode' configuration.{{Cite web |date=2022-11-05 |title=Advanced Short Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) |website=Think Defence |url=https://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2022/11/advanced-short-range-air-to-air-missile-asraam/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2019-07-30 |title=Munitions handling on the Royal Navy's aircraft carriers |website=Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/munitions-handling-on-the-royal-navys-aircraft-carriers/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |title=METEOR {{!}} Air Dominance, AIR SUPERIORITY |url=https://www.mbda-systems.com/product/meteor/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=MBDA |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |author=Nicholas Drummond |title=MBDA model of F-35 showing weapon loadout: BVRAAM (Meteor), SPEAR 3 and ASRAAM. |url=https://twitter.com/nicholadrummond/status/907740965473079296 |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |language=en}} For air-to-surface missions, an F-35B can carry up-to six Raytheon UK Paveway IV 500lb guided bombs with two bombs mounted internally, or eight 140+ km ranged SPEAR 3 cruise missiles (it is not yet known if SPEAR can/will be externally mounted on the F-35B).{{Cite web |date=2022-11-20 |title=Paveway IV |website=Think Defence |url=https://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2022/11/paveway-iv/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2022-11-06 |title=SPEAR Missile |website=Think Defence |url=https://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2022/11/spear-missile/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2021-01-17 |title=Putting the 'strike' in UK carrier strike – the SPEAR 3 stand-off weapon |website=Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/putting-the-strike-in-uk-carrier-strike-the-spear-3-stand-off-weapon/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en-GB}} It has not be confirmed if the F-35B will be integrated with the upcoming French-British-Italian Future Cruise / Anti-Ship Weapon(s).

{{main|AgustaWestland AW159}}

The AgustaWestland AW159 is a medium-sized, twin-engine, multi-role helicopter and a development of the Westland Lynx. Known as the 'Wildcat', it is in service with both the British Army as the Wildcat MK1 and the Royal Navy as the Wildcat HMA2 (or HMA Mk2).{{Cite web |date=4 November 2023 |title=Aircraft |url=https://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/aircraft/ |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=British Army}}{{Cite web |date=4 November 2023 |title=Wildcat |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/aircraft/helicopters/wildcat |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Royal Navy}} The Royal Navy's first Wildcat HMA2 entered service on 23 March 2015.{{cite web |date=9 November 2011 |title=Navy's new Wildcat makes first landing at sea |publisher=Defence News |url= http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/NavysNewWildcatMakesFirstLandingAtSea.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120113202941/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/NavysNewWildcatMakesFirstLandingAtSea.htm |archive-date=13 January 2012 |access-date=30 December 2011}} The HM2 maritime variant is optimised for surface warfare and can be armed with up-to 20x Martlet multi-role missiles or up-to 4x Sea Venom anti-ship missiles or machine guns; alternatively, Sting Ray lightweight torpedoes and depth charges may be carried for anti-submarine duties.{{Cite web |date=2019-02-04 |title=In focus: the Wildcat multi role helicopter in service with the Royal Navy |website=Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-the-wildcat-multi-role-helicopter-in-service-with-the-royal-navy/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en-GB}} These weapons are supported by an array of sensors such as the Seaspray 7400E AESA radar, MX-15Di electro-optical/FLIR camera and various radar and missile warning systems. The aircraft has a maximum range of {{convert|520|nmi}} and an endurance of four and a half hours.{{cite web |title=AW159 |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/product/aw159-0 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329110514/http://www.agustawestland.com/product/aw159-0 |archive-date=29 March 2013 |access-date=30 December 2011 |publisher=AgustaWestland}}

The nature of the Wildcat's role is more likely to see it deployed onboard a carrier's escort vessels rather than a carrier itself.

{{main|AgustaWestland AW101}}

The AgustaWestland AW101 is a family of medium-sized, three-engined, multi-role helicopters. Two versions are in service with the UK Armed Forces, where it is known as the 'Merlin'. The Merlin Mk4 or 'Commando Merlin' is designed to carry up to twenty-four troops seated or sixteen stretcher patients and focuses on conducting utility missions such as troop insertions, whilst the Merlin Mk2 or HM2 anti-submarine warfare variant is fitted with a dipping sonar and sonar-buoy dispensers, and a complete electronic warfare suite; additionally it can be mounted with the Crowsnest airborne surveillance and control kit.{{cite web |access-date=30 December 2011|publisher=AgustaWestland |title=AW110 |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/product/aw101-1|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106081142/http://www.agustawestland.com/product/aw101-1|archive-date=6 January 2012}}{{Citation |title=Royal Navy receives first Commando Merlin | date=4 June 2018 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqNwIJmyTU0 |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en}}{{Citation |title=Guide to the Merlin Mk4 helicopter | date=7 April 2020 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hizy6jPUEI8 |access-date=2023-11-04 |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=4 November 2023 |title=Merlin MK2 |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/aircraft/helicopters/merlin-mk2 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=Royal Navy}}{{Cite web |last=Bahtić |first=Fatima |date=2023-01-17 |title=Royal Navy welcomes final Mk4/4a Merlin helicopter |url=https://www.navaltoday.com/2023/01/17/royal-navy-welcomes-final-mk4-4a-merlin-helicopter/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=Naval Today |language=en-US}}

Both versions use a common airframe. Their range and endurance using only a two engine cruise option is {{convert|750|nmi}}, or six hours. However, range can be extended further when the five underfloor fuel tanks are supplemented with auxiliary fuel tanks fitted in the cabin. Armament depends on the mission but includes anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, door-mounted machine guns, multi-purpose rocket, cannon pods, air-to-air missiles and air-to-surface missiles. Currently, Royal Navy's Merlin Mk2 fleet is only integrated with Sting Ray lightweight torpedoes and depth charges, and both the Mk2 and Mk4 can be equipped with machine guns. It was initially anticipated that at least 14 Merlin HM2s would be assigned to the carrier.{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/farnborough-2014/uk-considering-bringing-orphaned-merlins-service |title=U.K. Considering Bringing Orphaned Merlins into Service |date=15 July 2014 |first=Tony |last=Osborne |access-date=16 July 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140729020513/http://aviationweek.com/farnborough-2014/uk-considering-bringing-orphaned-merlins-service |archive-date=29 July 2014}} However, in practice with just 30 Merlin HM2s in service, it may be impossible to deploy 14 aircraft on a single operational carrier on a full-time basis.{{Cite web|date=19 September 2015 |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navys-merlin-helicopter-fleet-bearing-a-heavy-load/|title=The Royal Navy's Merlin helicopter fleet – bearing a heavy load |website=Navy Lookout}} During the 2021 carrier strike group deployment to the Pacific, for instance, considerably fewer than 14 Merlins were embarked with the task group,{{Cite web |date=May 2021 |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-uk-carrier-strike-group-sets-sail/|title=The UK Carrier Strike Group sets sail |website=Navy Lookout}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/19264209.culdrose-820-squadron-leave-helston-role-hms-queen-elizabeth/ |title=Almost 200 Helston navy crew leave for prestigious new role for rest of the year |date=28 April 2021}} while during the 2023 "Operation FIREDRAKE" deployment, only five Merlins (along with three Wildcats and eight F-35Bs) were embarked on the carrier.{{cite web |title=2023 Carrier Strike Group deployment begins |website=Navy Lookout |date=11 September 2023 |url=https://www.navylookout.com/2023-carrier-strike-group-deployment-begins/}}

The 1982 Falklands War made clear the importance of airborne early warning and control and led to the development of the Sea King AEW2, which was succeeded by the Sea King ASaC7. This was scheduled to be retired in the second half of 2018{{cite news |first=Richard |last=Scott |url=http://www.janes.com/article/37615/uk-extends-sea-king-asac-7-life-out-to-2018 | title=UK extends Sea King ASaC.7 life out to 2018 |newspaper=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |date=7 May 2014 |access-date=16 July 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140529145845/http://www.janes.com/article/37615/uk-extends-sea-king-asac-7-life-out-to-2018 |archive-date=29 May 2014}} and planning for its replacement was identified at an early stage as an integral part of the next-generation aircraft carrier.{{cite web|date=2 April 2001|access-date=1 January 2012|publisher=BAE Systems |title=BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman to study UK future airborne early warning concepts |url=http://baesystems.com/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2001/press_020420011.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110408132509/http://www.baesystems.com/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2001/press_020420011.html|archive-date=8 April 2011|url-status=dead}} The programme became known as the "Future Organic Airborne Early Warning" (FOAEW), and contracts were placed with BAE / Northrop Grumman and Thales in April 2001.{{cite journal |first=Stewart |last=Penney |title=UK Airborne Early Warning study contracts assigned |journal=Flight International |page=16 |date=10 April 2001 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2001/2001%20-%201260.html |access-date=28 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131003050136/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2001/2001%20-%201260.html |archive-date=3 October 2013 |url-status=live}} In April 2002, BAE and Northrop Grumman received a follow-on study contract for Phase II of the project, by then renamed Maritime Airborne Surveillance and Control (MASC).{{cite news |title=BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman Awarded Follow-On Carrier AEW Study |work=Defense Daily |date=17 April 2002}} The MASC assessment phase began in September 2005 and by May 2006 three study contracts were awarded for MASC platform and mission systems options: one to Lockheed Martin UK for a Merlin helicopter fitted with AEW mission systems, another to AgustaWestland to maintain the present Sea King ASaC7 and finally to Thales UK to upgrade the Sea King's mission systems.

The 2010 SDSR delayed the project which became a competition between Thales and Lockheed to supply Crowsnest, a bolt-on sensor package that can be carried by any Merlin HM2. The Thales pod is based on the Sea King's Searchwater 2000; Lockheed had intended to use a derivative of the F-35's APG-81 radar but is now believed to be using an Elta system. Both systems were scheduled to begin flight trials in the summer of 2014 ahead of Main Gate in 2016. Ten pods were planned with IOC in 2019, but that was later changed to late-2021,{{cite web |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/007678-001-Carrier-Strike-preparing-for-deployment.pdf |title=Carrier Strike–Preparing for Deployment |publisher=National Audit Office |date=26 June 2020 |access-date=21 June 2021 }} and then (subsequently) to the second quarter of 2023. A small force of Sea King ASaC.7 helicopters had been kept in service with 849 Naval Air Squadron after the final withdrawal of the remainder of the Royal Navy's Sea Kings, but these aircraft were withdrawn from service in September 2018.{{cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-09-27/royal-navy-bids-farewell-sea-king |title=Royal Navy Bids Farewell to the Sea King |work=AIN Online |last=Donald |first=David |date=27 September 2018 |access-date=21 June 2021 }} As part of the process of the system reaching initial operating capability, Crowsnest was deployed on the first Merlin helicopters in March 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/03/royal-navys-new-merlin-crowsnest-aew-helicopter-enters-service-ahead-of-cgs21-deployment/|title=Royal Navy's New Merlin Crowsnest AEW Helicopter Enters Service Ahead of CGS21 deployment|first=Xavier|last=Vavasseur |work=Naval News|date=24 March 2021 |access-date=21 June 2021 }} However, the system experienced operating challenges.{{Cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/03/royal-navys-new-merlin-crowsnest-aew-helicopter-enters-service-ahead-of-cgs21-deployment/|title = Royal Navy's New Merlin Crowsnest AEW Helicopter Enters Service Ahead of CGS21 deployment|date = 24 March 2021}}{{cite web |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/007678-001-Carrier-Strike-preparing-for-deployment.pdf |title=Carrier Strike – Preparing for deployment |author= |date=26 June 2020 |website=nao.org.uk|publisher=National Audit Office |access-date=8 November 2020 }} Initial operating capability of the system was achieved in July 2023 and full operating capability is expected in 2024/25. It has been reported that initially five Merlins will be equipped with Crowsnest, three of these being normally assigned to the "high readiness" aircraft carrier.{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/2023-carrier-strike-group-deployment-begins/ |title=2023 Carrier Strike Group deployment begins |website=Navy Lookout |date=11 September 2023}}{{cite web |date=19 December 2022 |url=https://www.navylookout.com/crowsnest-airborne-surveillance-and-control-due-to-achieve-initial-operating-capability-in-2023/ |title=Crowsnest Airborne Surveillance and Control due to achieve Initial Operating Capability in 2023 |website=Navy Lookout}} During its 2023 "Operation FIREDRAKE" deployment, two of five Merlins embarked on Queen Elizabeth were in the AEW configuration.

In March 2021, it emerged that the Royal Navy was considering fitting its Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers with electromagnetic catapults and arrestor cables to launch and recover non-STOVL aircraft. An MOD-issued Request for Information (RFI) specified a need for a system capable of launching a maximum weight of {{convert|24,948|kg|lb}} and recovering a maximum weight of {{convert|21,319|kg|lb}} for installation within three{{endash}}five years.{{cite news |title=Electromagnetic Catapults For Carriers Sought By UK Royal Navy |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/electromagnetic-catapults-carriers-sought-uk-royal-navy |access-date=31 March 2021 |work=Aviation Week |date=1 March 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Lye |first1=Harry |title=Royal Navy seeking information on cats and traps to launch drones |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/features/uk-carrier-cats-and-traps/ |access-date=31 March 2021 |work=Naval Technology |date=9 March 2021}} Whilst these weight limits mean it is unable to launch and recover large conventional aircraft, like the F-35C, the system will be able to launch and recover unmanned combat air vehicles (UCAVs). During the same month, it emerged that the Royal Navy was undertaking conceptual work on a carrier-borne UAV under Project Vixen.{{cite news |last1=Newdick |first1=Thomas |title=Now The UK Wants To Add Combat Drones To Its Aircraft Carriers, But Is It Really Feasible? |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/39922/now-the-uk-wants-to-add-combat-drones-to-its-aircraft-carriers-but-is-it-really-feasible |access-date=31 March 2021 |work=The Drive |date=24 March 2021}} The Royal Navy plans to operate these UAVs in strike, electronic warfare, air-to-air refueling and airborne early warning roles, replacing some helicopter-based platforms, including Merlin Crowsnest.{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Royal Navy looking at fixed-wing carrier based drone for AEW |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/royal-navy-looking-at-fixed-wing-carrier-based-drone-for-aew/ |access-date=7 April 2021 |work=UK Defence Journal |date=2 April 2021}} In May 2023, the UK announced a contract to trial a General Atomics Mojave short-take off and landing UAV aboard Prince of Wales.{{cite news |title=British aircraft carrier to trial 'Project Mojave' drones |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/british-aircraft-carrier-to-trial-variant-of-reaper-drones/ |access-date=21 May 2023 |work=UK Defence Journal |date=19 May 2023}} These trials took place in November 2023 off the coast of the United States and saw the aircraft successfully launched and recovered.{{cite news |date=17 November 2023 |title=Mojave uncrewed air system successfully flown from HMS Prince of Wales |url=https://www.navylookout.com/mojave-uncrewed-air-system-successfully-flown-from-hms-prince-of-wales/ |access-date=17 November 2023 |work=Navy Lookout}}{{Cite web |title=GA-ASI Redefines Maritime Operations with Mojave |url=https://www.ga-asi.com/mojave-uas-carrier-takeoff-and-landing-demo |access-date=2024-01-12 |website=General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |date=2023-11-17 |title=Unmanned Mojave makes trials debut aboard UK's HMS Prince of Wales |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/unmanned-mojave-makes-trials-debut-aboard-uks-hms-prince-of-wales/155910.article |access-date=2024-01-12 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Naval News |date=2023-11-17 |title=UK Royal Navy Tests Mojave Drone Aboard Aircraft Carrier |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/11/uk-royal-navy-tests-mojave-drone-aboard-aircraft-carrier/ |access-date=2024-01-12 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}} In September 2023, an Autonomous Systems W drone was also trialed for carrier onboard delivery.{{cite news |title=Aircraft drone makes history landing on Royal Navy carrier at sea |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2023/september/08/20230907-first-aircraft-drone-on-board-hms-prince-of-wales |access-date=27 February 2024 |work=Royal Navy |date=8 September 2023}}

File:RAF F-35B.jpg|F-35B Lightning II

File:Merlin HM2 of 820 NAS in flight over HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) on 26 June 2017 (45162796).jpg|A Merlin Mk2 flying alongside Queen Elizabeth

File:Royal Navy Wildcat Helicopter MOD 45158431.jpg|Wildcat HM2 operating over the English Channel

File:HMS Ocean nearing the end of her Operational Sea Training with Chinook and Apache on deck. MOD 45158421.jpg|Apache and Chinook at sea on {{HMS|Ocean|L12|6}}

File:Royal Navy Merlin HM2 Crowsnest ASaC.jpg|A Merlin HM2 Crowsnest

File:Rosythaircraftcarrierworks.jpg

File:HMS QueenElizabeth bulbous bow 1.JPG) of HMS Queen Elizabeth at Rosyth]]

During a speech on 21 July 2004, Geoff Hoon announced a one-year delay to allow contractual and cost issues to be resolved. The building of the carriers was confirmed in December 2005. The building was undertaken by four companies across seven shipyards, with final block integration and assembly at Rosyth:

• BAE Systems Surface Ships – Govan (Lower Blocks 3 and 4), Scotstoun (aft island) and Portsmouth (Lower Blocks 2, 5 and forward island)
• Babcock Marine – Rosyth (Sponsons, Mast and Centre Blocks 5 and 6) and Appledore (Lower Block 1)
• A&P Group – Hebburn (Centre Block 3)
• Cammell Laird – Birkenhead (Centre Blocks 2 and 4)

In December 2007, eight diesel engines and electricity generators, four for each ship, were ordered from Wärtsilä.{{cite web|access-date=5 January 2012|work=Defense Industry Daily|title=Britain's Future CVF Carriers: the Queen Elizabeth Class|url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/design-preparations-continue-for-britains-new-cvf-future-carrier-updated-01630/|date=21 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111209170711/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/design-preparations-continue-for-britains-new-cvf-future-carrier-updated-01630/|archive-date=9 December 2011|url-status=dead}} On 4 March 2008, contracts for the supply of 80,000 tonnes of steel were awarded to Corus Group, with an estimated value of £65 million. Other contracts included £3 million for fibre optic cable, over £1 million for reverse osmosis equipment to provide over 500 tonnes of fresh water daily, and £4 million for aviation fuel systems.{{cite web|date=4 March 2008 |title=80,000 Tonnes of Steel Ordered For New Aircraft Carriers |url=http://www.mod.uk:80/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/80000TonnesOfSteelOrderedForNewAircraftCarriers.htm/ |archive-url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20120817110818/http://www.mod.uk:80/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/80000TonnesOfSteelOrderedForNewAircraftCarriers.htm/ |archive-date=17 August 2012 |publisher=Royal Navy |access-date=20 May 2008 |url-status=dead}} On 3 April 2008, a contract for the manufacture of aircraft lifts (worth £13m) was awarded to MacTaggart Scott of Loanhead, Scotland.{{cite web|title=Aircraft lifts ordered for new Navy carriers |publisher=Defence News |date=4 April 2008 |url=http://www.mod.uk:80/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/AircraftLiftsOrderedForNewNavyCarriers.htm |archive-url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20100408205819/http://www.mod.uk:80/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/AircraftLiftsOrderedForNewNavyCarriers.htm |archive-date=8 April 2010 |access-date=30 December 2010 |url-status=dead}}

In mid May 2008, the Treasury announced that it would be making available further funds on top of the regular defence budget, reportedly allowing the construction of the carriers to begin.{{cite news|first= Richard|last= Alleyne|title= MOD allowed funds for kit and aircraft carriers|url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1965357/MOD-allowed-funds-for-kit-and-aircraft-carriers.html|work= The Daily Telegraph|date= 16 May 2008|access-date=20 May 2008|location= London|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080519180439/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1965357/MOD-allowed-funds-for-kit-and-aircraft-carriers.html|archive-date= 19 May 2008|url-status=live}} This was followed, on 20 May 2008, by the government giving the "green light" for construction of the Queen Elizabeth class, stating that it was ready to sign the contracts for full production once the creation of the planned shipbuilding joint venture between BAE Systems and the VT Group had taken place.{{cite news | title = Gov't gives go-ahead for two new aircraft carriers |url=http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5i09tIPKqZBPnl_Ol6qpkZXAHUmiA |agency=Agence France-Presse |date=20 May 2008 |access-date=20 May 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008090155/http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5i09tIPKqZBPnl_Ol6qpkZXAHUmiA |archive-date=8 October 2012}} This joint venture, BVT Surface Fleet, became operational on 1 July 2008.{{cite press release |title=BVT Surface Fleet Joint Venture becomes operational |publisher=BAE Systems |date=30 June 2008 |url=http://www.baesystems.de/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2008/autoGen_108530122154.html |access-date=1 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107014310/http://www.baesystems.de/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2008/autoGen_108530122154.html |archive-date=7 January 2016 |url-status=dead}} VT Group later sold its share to BAE Systems which renamed the unit BAE Systems Surface Ships. It undertook approximately forty per cent of the project workload.

On 1 September 2008, the MoD announced a £51 million package of important equipment contracts; £34 million for the highly mechanised weapons handling system for the two ships, £8 million for supply of uptake and down-take systems for both ships, £5 million for air traffic control software, £3 million for supply of pumps and associated systems engineering, and £1 million for emergency diesel generators.{{cite web|access-date=29 December 2011 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |date=1 September 2008 |title=Hi-tech weapons handling system for new aircraft carriers |url=http://www.mod.uk:80/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/HitechWeaponsHandlingSystemForNewAircraftCarriers.htm |archive-url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20120817112759/http://www.mod.uk:80/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/HitechWeaponsHandlingSystemForNewAircraftCarriers.htm |archive-date=17 August 2012 |url-status=dead}} On 6 October 2008, it was announced that contracts had been placed for "the carriers' Rolls-Royce gas turbines, generators, motors, power distribution equipment, platform management systems, propellers, shafts, steering gear, rudders and stabilisers".{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/7654598.stm|access-date=4 January 2012|date=6 October 2008|title=Carrier work boosts Scots firms|publisher=BBC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081009081532/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/7654598.stm|archive-date=9 October 2008|url-status=live}}

The construction of the two carriers involves more than 10,000 people from 90 companies, 7,000 of them in the six shipyards building the sections of the ships.{{cite web|access-date=29 December 2011|publisher=Royal Navy|title=Design|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Future-Ships/Queen-Elizabeth-Class/Design|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119091607/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Future-Ships/Queen-Elizabeth-Class/Design|archive-date=19 January 2012|url-status=live}}

{{main|HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08)}}

File:HMS Queen Elizabeth Under Construction MOD 45158465.jpg, December 2014]]

The first steel cut for the project, in July 2009, signalled the start of construction of Lower Block 3 at BAE Systems Clyde, where production of Lower Block 4 started in January 2010.{{cite web|access-date=26 February 2010 |publisher=The Manufacturer |date=25 February 2010 |title=First steel cut on new carrier |url=http://www.themanufacturer.com/uk/content/10214/First_steel_cut_on_new_carrier |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110111084028/http://www.themanufacturer.com/uk/content/10214/First_steel_cut_on_new_carrier |archive-date=11 January 2011}} Meanwhile, construction of the bow Lower Block 1 was carried out at Appledore, North Devon, and was completed in March 2010.{{cite web|date=7 April 2010|access-date=30 December 2011|publisher=Naval Technology|title=Bow Completed|url=http://www.naval-technology.com/news/news81394.html?WT.mc_id=DN_News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727145111/http://www.naval-technology.com/news/news81394.html?WT.mc_id=DN_News|archive-date=27 July 2014|url-status=live}}

On 25 January 2010, it was announced that the Cammell Laird shipyard has secured a £44 million contract to build the flight decks of the carriers.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/merseyside/8479528.stm |publisher=BBC News |title=Firm wins £44m warship contract |date=25 January 2010 |access-date=22 May 2010}} That same day, construction began in Portsmouth of the 6,000-tonne Lower Block 2 for Queen Elizabeth.{{cite web |date=25 February 2010 |access-date=6 February 2010 |publisher=Defpro.News |title=Construction begins at new UK carriers' base port |url=http://www.defpro.com/news/details/13417/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331220802/http://www.defpro.com/news/details/13417/ |archive-date=31 March 2012}} On 16 August 2011, the 8,000-tonne Lower Block 03 of Queen Elizabeth left BAE Systems Surface Ships' Govan shipyard in Glasgow on a large ocean-going barge. Travelling {{convert|600|mi}} around the northern coast of Scotland, the block arrived at Rosyth on the evening of 20 August 2011.{{cite web|date=22 August 2011|access-date=29 December 2011|title=Huge carrier block arrives in Rosyth|publisher=Navy News|url=http://www.navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/871|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407040220/http://www.navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/871|archive-date=7 April 2012|url-status=live}} Her forward island was built at BAE Portsmouth and attached on 14 March 2013; the aft island was attached in June 2013 and the ski jump in November 2013.

Queen Elizabeth was christened on 4 July 2014, and floated-out on 17 July 2014.{{cite web | url=http://aviationweek.com/farnborough-2014/uk-carrier-floated-first-time | title=U.K. Carrier Floated for the First Time | date=17 July 2014 | first=Tony | last=Osborne | work=Aviation Week |access-date=19 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140730023852/http://aviationweek.com/farnborough-2014/uk-carrier-floated-first-time | archive-date=30 July 2014 | url-status=live}} On 26 June 2017, the new carrier left Rosyth for the first time to commence sea trials. Flight trials with helicopters began in July 2017 and F-35B flight trials were expected towards the end of 2018. Initial operational capability was declared on 4 January 2021.{{Cite web|title=Carrier Strike Group hits important milestone|date=4 January 2021 |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/carrier-strike-group-hits-important-milestone|access-date=2021-01-05|website=GOV.UK|language=en}}

{{main|HMS Prince of Wales (R09)}}

File:HMS Prince of Wales (R09) sets sail for the first time - 18.jpg

The 2010 SDSR declared that the UK needed only one aircraft carrier; however, penalty clauses in the contract meant that cancelling the second vessel would be more expensive than actually building it. The SDSR, therefore, directed that the second aircraft carrier, Prince of Wales, should be built but upon completion be either mothballed or sold.{{citation |url=http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_191634.pdf |page=23 |title=Securing Britain in an Age of Uncertainty: The Strategic Defence and Security Review |publisher=HM Government |date=October 2010 |isbn=9780101794824 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101222022127/http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/%40dg/%40en/documents/digitalasset/dg_191634.pdf |archive-date=22 December 2010}} The SDSR also directed that the ship be converted to a CATOBAR configuration; however, the costs associated with the conversion escalated to £2bn, leading the government to reverse its decision and build the ship to the original STOVL configuration.{{Cite Hansard |house=House of Commons |title=Carrier Strike Capability |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmhansrd/cm120510/debtext/120510-0001.htm#12051029000006 |date=10 May 2012 |column_start=140 |column_end=142 |speaker=Philip Hammond |position=Secretary of State for Defence |access-date=31 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170802124323/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmhansrd/cm120510/debtext/120510-0001.htm#12051029000006 |archive-date=2 August 2017 |url-status=live}} On 26 May 2011, Defence Secretary Liam Fox cut the first steel for Prince of Wales.{{cite web|access-date=29 December 2011|publisher=Transmission|date=July 2011|title=First steel cut for HMS Prince of Wales|url=http://missionsystems.baesystems.investis.com/transmission/issue2/price_of_wales.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426081250/http://missionsystems.baesystems.investis.com/transmission/issue2/price_of_wales.asp|archive-date=26 April 2012|url-status=dead}} The Royal Navy's 2012/13 yearbook stated "both carriers are likely to be commissioned and may even be capable of operating together".{{cite book | url=http://www.newsdeskmedia.com/files/Global-Force-2013.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921091729/http://www.newsdeskmedia.com/files/Global-Force-2013.pdf | url-status=dead | archive-date=2018-09-21 | title=A Global Force 2012/13 | publisher=Royal Navy | year=2013 | page=24 | isbn=978-1-906940-75-1}} In 2014, the prime minister, David Cameron, announced that Prince of Wales would be brought into service.[http://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/nato-summit-2014-pm-end-of-summit-press-conference HM Government] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140906002944/https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/nato-summit-2014-pm-end-of-summit-press-conference |date=6 September 2014}} NATO Summit 2014

As of 20 April 2016, construction of Prince of Wales was announced to be 80% complete.{{cite news |title=Aircraft Carriers:Written question – 33852 |url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2016-04-13/33852/|access-date=20 April 2016|agency=HM Government|date=20 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160505092937/http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2016-04-13/33852/|archive-date=5 May 2016|url-status=live}} The ship was handed over to the Royal Navy on 10 December 2019 and had been set for a full operational capability from 2023.{{Cite web|title=Repairs to HMS Prince of Wales will not prevent return to operations this summer|url=https://www.navylookout.com/repairs-to-hms-prince-of-wales-will-not-prevent-return-to-operations-this-summer/|access-date=2023-04-24|website=Navy Lookout|date=24 April 2023 |language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Commissioning day for HMS Prince of Wales |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/december/10/191210-hms-prince-of-wales-commissioning|access-date=2020-11-22|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|language=en}}{{cite web |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2016/january/13/160113-hms-prince-of-wales-iconic-structure-installed |title=Iconic structure is installed on HMS Prince of Wales |access-date=26 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702112402/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2016/january/13/160113-hms-prince-of-wales-iconic-structure-installed |archive-date=2 July 2017 |url-status=live}}

Prince of Wales assumed responsibility for the continuing carrier trials of the F-35B in 2019 when Queen Elizabeth entered dry-dock for her scheduled maintenance period.{{cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/hms-prince-wales-take-hms-queen-elizabeth-due/ |title=HMS Prince of Wales to take over later stages of F-35 trials from HMS Queen Elizabeth |last=Allison |first=George |date=17 November 2017 |website=UK Defence Journal |access-date=22 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223042513/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/hms-prince-wales-take-hms-queen-elizabeth-due/ |archive-date=23 December 2017 |url-status=live}}

File:PoW as seen from the harbour wall in Liverpool.jpg

Prince of Wales made her first visit to her affiliated city, Liverpool, from 28 February to 3 March 2020. During her stay in the city, the ship welcomed thousands of civilians aboard.

In August 2022, the external shaft coupling on the starboard propeller shaft, of HMS Prince of Wales, failed, not long after setting sail from Portsmouth Naval Base. The vessel was towed back to base. It was then taken to Babcock shipyard, in Rosyth, Scotland, to undergo repairs, which took nine months to complete.{{Cite web | title=HMS Prince of Wales update nearly a year after breakdown off Isle of Wight | url=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/hms-prince-wales-nearly-breakdown-080900926.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240310102829/https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/hms-prince-wales-nearly-breakdown-080900926.html | access-date=2025-02-15 | archive-date=2024-03-10}}

When the Secretary of State for Defence announced the contract for the vessels, the cost was initially estimated at £3.9 billion.{{cite news |first=Michael |last=Evans |title=Go-ahead for £5bn aircraft carriers |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/article2141406.ece |work=The Times |date=25 July 2007 |access-date=26 July 2007 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080725112906/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/article2141406.ece |archive-date=25 July 2008 |url-status=dead}} At the time of approval the first carrier was expected to enter service in July 2015 and the budget was £4.1bn for two ships.{{cite web | url=http://www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/hc1011/hc04/0489/0489_i.pdf | title=Ministry of Defence Major Projects Report 2010 HC489-I | publisher=House of Commons Defence Committee | date=15 October 2010 | page=7 and fig 3 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105223335/http://www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/hc1011/hc04/0489/0489_i.pdf | archive-date=5 November 2013}} The financial crisis led to a decision in December 2008 to slow production, delaying the first ship until May 2016 and the second by two years. This decision alone added £1.6bn to the cost. By March 2010 the budget was estimated at £5.9bn. If the carriers had been abandoned in the 2010 SDSR then the MoD could have cancelled £1.5bn of planned spending on Queen Elizabeth and £1.3bn of planned spending on Prince of Wales,{{cite web | url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmselect/cmpubacc/687/687we05.htm | title=The Major Projects Report 2010 – Public Accounts Committee – Supplementary written evidence from the Ministry of Defence | publisher=UK Parliament | date=15 February 2011 | access-date=19 August 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819083130/http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmselect/cmpubacc/687/687we05.htm | archive-date=19 August 2014 | url-status=live}} but the loss of VAT exemption meant that cancelling one or two carriers would have overall saved £989m and £2,098m respectively. These long term savings were less important than the short term costs, there would have been nearly an extra £1bn of expenditure on cancellation costs. In November 2013 the contract was renegotiated with a budget of £6.2bn and BAE agreeing to pay 50% of any cost overruns rather than 10% as previously.

In 2018 the Committee of Public Accounts determined that build cost of the two carriers was £6.212 billion, and operational costs up to March 2021 were estimated at £0.6 billion. Costs for the aircraft were estimated up to March 2021 to be £5.8 billion on initial F-35s and £0.3 billion on the Crowsnest radar system for Merlin helicopters (based on an exchange rate of $1.55 to the pound in October 2017, but the rate has since fallen considerably{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/business-49156403|title=Pound sinks to 28-month low on Brexit fears |website=BBC News|date=29 July 2019|access-date=29 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190729180824/https://www.bbc.com/news/business-49156403|archive-date=29 July 2019|url-status=live}}). Important additional equipment such as communication equipment and related software for the F-35 was not yet funded. The whole life cost of the first 48 F-35s was roughly estimated as £13 billion, or over £270 million per F-35.{{cite report |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmpubacc/394/394.pdf |title=Delivering Carrier Strike |publisher=UK Parliament |work=House of Commons, Committee of Public Accounts |id=HC 394 |date=19 January 2018 |access-date=7 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180307214321/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmpubacc/394/394.pdf |archive-date=7 March 2018 |url-status=live}}

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{{reflist}}

• {{cite book |last=Hobbs |first=David |title=British Aircraft Carriers: Design, Development and Service Histories |year=2013 |location=Barnsley, UK |publisher=Seaforth Publishing |isbn=978-1-84832-138-0}}

{{Commons category|Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers}}

• [http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/ships/future-ships/aircraft-carrier Royal Navy – The Equipment – Aircraft Carrier] (royalnavy.mod.uk)
• [https://www.bmt.org BMT Group] (www.bmt.org)

{{Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier}}

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