During last-minute checks ahead of sailing for NATO exercise Steadfast Defender, it has been discovered that HMS Queen Elizabeth has a significant issue with her starboard propeller shaft. The ship will not sail on 4th February as planned and instead, HMS Prince of Wales will be readied to replace her.
The RN has instituted additional checks on the aircraft carrier’s shaft lines as a result of the painful lessons learned from the issues experienced previously with HMS Prince of Wales. In the course of an inspection, concerns have arisen around one of the couplings on the starboard shaft. It should be noted that this is not the same problem that afflicted HMS Prince of Wales. Although the ship remains in class (ie. technically seaworthy), it has been decided as a sensible precaution, to withdraw her from the exercise until the issue can be thoroughly investigated and remedied.
The Fleet Commander said: “Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth’s starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday. HMS Prince of Wales will take the place of HMS Queen Elizabeth on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible.“
Demonstrating the value of having two aircraft carriers, at very short notice the ship’s company of HMS Prince of Wales have been told to prepare to sail. This process will probably take a week or so and will involve rapidly accelerating existing maintenance tasks, the transfer of equipment from her sister as well as storing and fuelling ship.
HMS Prince of Wales was due to take over as flagship from her sister later this year but will now have to work up much more rapidly than planned as she has yet to embark more than a couple of jets or a full air group. 2024 continues to be difficult for the RN but being able to adapt and overcome is a core value of the service.
Further details to follow as they are available.
Main image: both carriers in Portsmouth (October 2020) Photo: Andy Amor
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
