HMS Prince of Wales sets sail on landmark sea trials
Thales hails carrier trials as key member of Aircraft Carrier Alliance
Thales has welcomed the news that the UK’s newest aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, has sailed from Rosyth Dockyard for the first time for sea trials.
The start of the trials represents an iconic moment for Britain’s aircraft carrier programme, with the sister ship HMS Queen Elizabeth already in operational service.
Prince of Wales will now conduct extensive sea trials off the coast of north east Scotland before arriving at her home port of Portsmouth later this year where the ship will join HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Defence Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said:
Prince of Wales’ departure from Rosyth is a landmark moment for the carrier programme. As the ship takes the next step to becoming fully operational, she carries with her the story of Britain’s maritime might.
This tremendous achievement is a testament to the talent of British industry and I look forward to the moment we can welcome her into the Royal Navy family.
Thales is a founding member of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance along with BAE Systems, Babcock and the UK MOD that has designed and built the two giant 65,000 carriers.
As well as leading the power and propulsion design and integration of the ships, Thales communications play a critical role on both carriers and we have been closely involved in the development of their innovative flying control towers.
As well as leading the power and propulsion design and integration of the ships, Thales communications play a critical role on both carriers.
Sir Simon Lister, Managing Director of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance said: “The Aircraft Carrier Alliance has bought together the very best of British industry, and it is thanks to their hard work, skill and determination that we have reached this important stage in the programme.
"By working together as one team, we are now able, on schedule, to start testing this magnificent ship in preparation for handing her over to the Royal Navy.”
