The Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth has departed Portsmouth Naval Base for a training mission. The departure, which occurred around 18:20 BST on Saturday, marks the beginning of a phase focused on integration and aviation skills.
According to Capt. Claire Thompson, the vessel's commanding officer, the training is essential to ensure the carrier is prepared to conduct operational activities within NATO if required. She described the deployment as a "key milestone" for the ship's NATO role and its progression towards becoming the Royal Navy's 'very high readiness' aircraft carrier. This designation is expected to be assumed from its sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, next year.
Family members gathered to see the carrier off, including Annie Hoare, whose son is a Petty Officer Weapons Engineer aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth. Hoare expressed pride in her son's service, noting the challenges of "information blackouts" during deployments but commending the Navy's support for families.