5 UK Aircraft Carriers

Introduction to UK Aircraft Carriers

The United Kingdom has a long history of operating aircraft carriers, with the first carrier, HMS Argus, being commissioned in 1918. Since then, the UK has operated a total of 15 aircraft carriers, with the most recent ones being the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers. In this article, we will explore five of the most notable UK aircraft carriers, their history, and their significance in the Royal Navy.

HMS Ark Royal (R09)

The HMS Ark Royal (R09) was a Invincible-class aircraft carrier that was commissioned in 1985. It was the third ship to bear the name Ark Royal and played a significant role in several conflicts, including the Falklands War and the Iraq War. The HMS Ark Royal was decommissioned in 2011 and was eventually sold for scrap in 2013.

HMS Illustrious (R06)

The HMS Illustrious (R06) was another Invincible-class aircraft carrier that was commissioned in 1982. It was the second ship to bear the name Illustrious and played a significant role in several conflicts, including the Falklands War and the Kosovo War. The HMS Illustrious was decommissioned in 2014 and was eventually sold for scrap in 2016.

HMS Invincible (R05)

The HMS Invincible (R05) was the lead ship of the Invincible-class aircraft carriers and was commissioned in 1980. It played a significant role in the Falklands War and was decommissioned in 2005. The HMS Invincible was eventually sold to a Turkish scrapyard in 2011.

HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08)

The HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) is a Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier that was commissioned in 2017. It is the largest warship ever built for the Royal Navy and is equipped with the latest technology and aircraft, including the F-35B Lightning II. The HMS Queen Elizabeth is currently the flagship of the Royal Navy and is expected to play a significant role in future conflicts.

HMS Prince of Wales (R09)

The HMS Prince of Wales (R09) is the second Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier and was commissioned in 2019. It is similar to the HMS Queen Elizabeth and is equipped with the latest technology and aircraft, including the F-35B Lightning II. The HMS Prince of Wales is expected to play a significant role in future conflicts and will provide the Royal Navy with a significant increase in capability.

🚨 Note: The UK aircraft carriers have played a significant role in the Royal Navy's history and have been involved in several conflicts around the world.

In conclusion, the UK has a long history of operating aircraft carriers, and the five carriers mentioned above are some of the most notable ones. From the HMS Ark Royal to the HMS Prince of Wales, these carriers have played a significant role in the Royal Navy’s history and have been involved in several conflicts around the world. The Queen Elizabeth-class carriers are the latest addition to the Royal Navy’s fleet and are expected to play a significant role in future conflicts.