Royal Navy’s second aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, currently being built by the Aircraft Carrier Alliance in Rosyth, has received the first twelve members of its crew.
As the first ship’s company, the team will work alongside their industry partners over the coming years to learn about the ship, the equipment and the technological advances as she progresses through her build programme, ahead of sea trials, expected in 2019.
Captain Simon Petitt , the Senior Naval Officer of both Queen Elizabeth Class carriers said: “It is an honour to be in charge of a small but rapidly growing team. This is day 1 for the men and women who will serve in HMS Prince of Wales and I wish them every success in their journey.”
“Over 3 years ago, I had the privilege to welcome the first members of HMS Queen Elizabeth. Then only 10 in number, the Ship’s Company is now 370 strong.”
HMS Prince of Wales stands in Rosyth along with her sister ship HMS Queen Elizabeth.
The two ships are expected to serve Britain for the next 50 years, projecting fighting power at sea and over land, protecting UK interests around the globe.
Defence Minister Philip Dunne said: “I am delighted to see HMS Prince of Wales coming to life and welcoming her first crew on board. Both she and her sister ship, HMS Queen Elizabeth are well on schedule to enter full service as the largest and most advanced aircraft carriers ever built for the Royal Navy.”
“From today, HMS Prince of Wales will be home to a growing complement of personnel, offering a clear demonstration of how our £178 billion investment in equipment is securing a bright future for our Armed Forces.”
Both ships are being delivered by the Aircraft Carrier Alliance, a unique partnering relationship between BAE Systems, Thales UK, Babcock and the Ministry of Defence.
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