Project Description
The Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers are the largest warships ever built for the UK.
What are the Queen Elizabeth Class Carriers?
The Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier programme comprises two aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales.
The carriers provide the UK with a mobile, versatile, and powerful platform for deploying air power wherever it is needed around the world. As the central vessels of the Royal Navy Carrier Strike Groups, these ships can deploy a range of aircraft including the cutting-edge F-35B Lightning II, as well as helicopters such as Merlins and Wildcats.
The F-35B is a short take-off and vertical landing fighter jet which can take off from and land on the carrier without the need for a long runway, giving the UK significant operational flexibility and range.
The ships are based in the UK and operate around the world as needed. They can support a wide range of operations, from disaster relief and humanitarian aid to combat missions and deterrence.
HMS Queen Elizabeth is the Fleet Flagship of the Royal Navy.
The carriers provide the UK with a mobile, versatile, and powerful platform for deploying air power wherever it is needed around the world.
How are the QE Aircraft Carriers delivered?
As in-service vessels, the availability of the Queen Elizabeth Class is managed through several contracts and arrangements which support the ships and the critical components which allow them to operate.
Support delivery for Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships is tailored to specific platform requirements and often managed through larger frameworks, such as the £5.2 Billion Future Maritime Support Programme which enables work to be carried out at shipyards across the UK and supports thousands of jobs at multiple companies.
Meet the DE&S Ships Domain
Become part of the team
The DE&S Ships Domain supports ships in service with the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. The Domain includes commercial officers, business enablers, engineers, finance and accounting teams, HR experts, information managers and technologists, and operational and project delivery personnel.
Domain delivery teams focused on in-service support include Ships Support Strategy, Naval Ships Support, Maritime Combat Systems, Marine Systems Support, Salvage and Marine Operations, and Boats.
