Queen welcomes new addition to United Kingdom’s naval fleet

The Queen has welcomed the UK’S new £3.1 billion aircraft carrier into the Royal Navy fleet and declared it the “best of British”.

Accompanied by the Princess Royal, the Queen arrived on board HMS Queen Elizabeth at Portsmouth Naval Base using a specially installed lift to bring her up to the hangar for the occasion.

She was led onboard by the ship’s commanding officer Captain Jerry Kyd.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson also attended to witness the 65,000 tonne vessel joining the fleet.

In a speech, the Queen said: “We are gathered here in Portsmouth today just a short distance from HMS Victory, a flagship of our seafaring past and a reminder of the debt we owe to the Royal Navy which for more than 500 years has protected the people of this country and our interests around the world.”

She praised the service personnel who will crew the carrier and added: “As the daughter, wife and mother of naval officers, I recognise the unique demands our nation asks of you and I will always value my special link with HMS Queen Elizabeth, her ship’s company and their families.”

The ceremony was organised to commission the carrier into the fleet but the Aircraft Carrier Alliance confirmed the Royal Navy had formally accepted the ship yesterday, meaning it had been fully handed over to the Ministry of Defence.

Mr Williamson said the commissioning ceremony “marks the start of a hugely significant chapter for the Royal Navy”.

He added: “Our new aircraft carrier is the epitome of British design and dexterity, at the core of our efforts to build an armed forces fit for the future.”

Picture: PA. The Queen is escorted by HMS Queen Elizabeth’s captain, Commodore Jerry Kyd, as she inspects the ship’s company.