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Navy: Aircraft Carriers

Volume 703: debated on Tuesday 22 July 2008

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What assurances they have received from the contractors concerning the in-service date of (a) HMS “Queen Elizabeth”; and (b) HMS “Prince of Wales”.[HL4910]

The contractors of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance signed a legally binding agreement with the MoD on 3 July 2008 to deliver the two future aircraft carriers in 2014 and 2016 respectively. Moreover, timely delivery will allow the contractors to reduce their costs and thereby maximise their reward under the incentive arrangements within the contract.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they expect (a) HMS “Queen Elizabeth”, and (b) HMS “Prince of Wales” to reach initial operating capability. [HL4911]

Initial operating capability is expected to be declared once the vessels have successfully completed a period of sea training and inspection. This is expected to take approximately four months following the in-service dates, which have been previously announced as 2014 and 2016.