Queen elizabeth aircraft carrier latest news
Here are the latest news and updates on the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier:
Recent News:
- First F-35B Lightning II jets arrive on board: In December 2020, the first F-35B Lightning II jets arrived on board the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier, marking a significant milestone in the ship's operational readiness. (Source: Royal Navy)
- Carrier Strike Group deployment: In November 2020, the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier, accompanied by the HMS Prince of Wales, HMS Richmond, and HMS Defender, set sail on a deployment to the Mediterranean and the Middle East. (Source: Royal Navy)
- Carrier Strike Group exercises: In October 2020, the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier participated in exercises with the US Navy's USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in the North Atlantic. (Source: Royal Navy)
- First operational deployment: In August 2020, the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier completed its first operational deployment, returning to Portsmouth after a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean and the Middle East. (Source: Royal Navy)
Upcoming Events:
- Carrier Strike Group deployment: The Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier is expected to deploy again in 2023, accompanied by other Royal Navy ships and the F-35B Lightning II jets. (Source: Royal Navy)
- F-35B Lightning II squadron: The Royal Navy's 617 Squadron, also known as the "Dambusters," is expected to become fully operational on the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier in 2023. (Source: Royal Navy)
Background:
The Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier is the largest warship ever built for the Royal Navy, measuring 920 feet (280 meters) long and 257 feet (79 meters) wide. The ship was commissioned in December 2017 and has been undergoing sea trials and operational testing since then. The Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier is designed to operate the F-35B Lightning II jets, which are capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and can be used for a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance.
Specifications:
- Length: 920 feet (280 meters)
- Beam: 257 feet (79 meters)
- Draft: 24 feet (7.3 meters)
- Displacement: 65,000 tons
- Speed: 25 knots (46 km/h)
- Range: 8,000 nautical miles (15,000 km)
- Crew: 700 officers and ratings
- Aircraft: F-35B Lightning II jets (up to 24 aircraft)
I hope this information is helpful!