Unconfirmed sources indicate that the starboard propeller shaft of the 65,000-ton warship has been damaged by a “major technical failure.”
The largest British warship has broken down off the south coast just after setting sail for the United States on a “landmark expedition.”
The second aircraft carrier of the Royal Navy, HMS Prince of Wales, was suffering an “emerging technical issue,” according to a spokeswoman. The issue is currently being researched.
The £3 billion ship, which only became fully operational last year, is anchored southeast of the Isle of Wight until an investigation is conducted.
Royal Navy spokesperson: “HMS Prince of Wales remains in the South Coast Exercise Area while undertaking investigations into an emerging mechanical issue.”
Unconfirmed reports of damage to the starboard propeller shaft were initially reported by UK Defence Journal, online news specializing in defense topics.
Navy Lookout, a second specialized news website, reported that the 65,000-ton warship had had a “major technical issue.”
The report stated, “Should the situation prove to be significant, it goes without saying that this is exceedingly sad and not a good look for the RN.”
The warship left nearby Portsmouth on Saturday on a mission to “define the future of stealth aircraft and drone operations off the coast of North America and the Caribbean,” according to the Royal Navy.
The carrier is scheduled to visit New York, Halifax, Canada, and the Caribbean, operating fifth-generation F-35 fast aircraft and drones off the deck, if the journey goes as planned.
Taking the HMS Prince of Wales task group across the Atlantic for the remainder of this year will not only push the limits of UK carrier operations, but it will also strengthen our close working relationship with our closest ally,” stated the ship’s commanding officer, Captain Richard Hewitt, in a statement to commemorate the ship’s departure.
“From operating F35 flashes of Lightning and drones to hosting the Atlantic Future Forum, none of this would be possible without the extraordinary efforts of the sailors on board, many of whom are on their first deployment with the Royal Navy.”
The frigate, tanker, and air group of helicopters and drones were deployed alongside the carrier-led HMS Prince of Wales.
The F-35 aircraft will join the ship in the United States.
