The people of Liverpool should be “hugely proud” of their
formidable aircraft carrier and its crew, Defence Minister has said on a visit to HMS
Prince of Wales.
The carrier, which is docked all this week in its affiliated city
of Liverpool, plays an essential role in UK security.
Today, the Minister met with Royal Navy personnel and industry
representatives during her visit to the carrier, which is docked
in Merseyside for the first time since March 2020. She also
hosted a forum on the newly launched UK's Defence Industrial
Strategy, which will support and create good jobs in the UK,
driving growth, spreading prosperity and deterring our
enemies.
HMS Prince of Wales and her sister ship HMS Queen Elizabeth are
the largest warships ever built for the Royal Navy. Capable of
carrying up to 40 aircraft and providing vital logistical and
humanitarian support, the flagship continues to play a pivotal
role in shaping the future of the UK's maritime capabilities and
in supporting global security in a more volatile world.
The HMS Prince of Wales's return to her affiliated city of
Liverpool was also celebrated with seven days of public
engagements, providing a unique opportunity for the public to see
behind the scenes of life aboard a modern warship, including the
ship's flight deck, operations rooms, and crew quarters.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry said:
“It was fantastic to see HMS Prince of Wales's berthed on the
River Mersey, showcasing the impressive defence capabilities,
sailors and service personnel keeping Britain safe and secure at
sea across the globe.”
“It's a proud moment for the people of Merseyside ahead of the
deployment of HMS Prince of Wales next year to the Indo-Pacific
region to exercise with partners and allies to help promote a
free and open Indo-Pacific”.
As MP for Liverpool Garston, Defence Minister MP took the opportunity to
highlight the Royal Navy's ongoing commitment to supporting local
communities, as well as its vital role in meeting the challenges
of operating in an increasingly complex global security
environment.
The HMS Prince of Wales is preparing for its deployment to the
Indo-Pacific in 2025, a strong example of UK's commitment to
global security, but also to building partnerships with those who
share Britain's values.
Some of the 800-strong crew members participated in a range of
community outreach activities, strengthening the Royal Navy's
relationship with the people of Liverpool and the wider
Merseyside region.
The flagship also hosted a dedicated STEM Day, inspiring students
and young people from Liverpool and beyond. The day provided an
exciting opportunity to meet sailors, engineers and warfare
specialists as well as learning about the cutting-edge
technologies onboard HMS Prince of Wales which help to keep our
nation safe.
Notes to Editors
