Question to the Ministry of Defence:
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the propulsion defect affecting HMS Prince of Wales is; and when he expects it to be fixed.
In September 2022, HMS PRINCE OF WALES suffered a starboard shaft coupling failure. During the investigation into the cause of the defect, an issue was also identified with HMS PRINCE OF WALES port shaft, and to prevent a similar defect occurring, rectification of this issue is expected to be completed before she commences her operational programme, as planned, in Autumn 2023.
The defects with HMS PRINCE OF WALES shafts are not believed to be a Class issue and HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH continues to undertake Strike Carrier duties until 2024 when HMS PRINCE OF WALES will take over as Very High Readiness Strike Carrier.