HMS ARK ROYAL has returned as Fleet Flagship and the nation’s Strike Carrier, fighting fit after her seven-month refit.

The Ark resumed her role as Fleet Flagship on 25th January after numerous trials on her sophisticated communications and weapons systems and a six-week Basic Operational Sea Training period under the guidance of Flag Officer Sea Training and his team.
In the coming weeks she will reammunition, visit Newcastle, and receive the first of her embarked Harriers in addition to 814 Squadron.

Captain John Clink, her Commanding Officer, said: “It gives all in Ark Royal great pride to be assuming the mantle of Flagship to the Royal Navy and our duties as the nation’s Strike Aircraft carrier.”

After Easter, the Ark will cross the Atlantic to North America’s Eastern Seaboard to conduct a major, multi-national exercise, as well as visiting Halifax in Canada for the Canadian Navy’s Centenary celebrations.

Picture caption: Ark Royal on the move

Picture: Gregg Macready, RN Phot. HMS Ark Royal

The Defence Industries Council, representing the UK-based defence industry has released an information video demonstrating the vital role that it plays in providing the equipment for the UK armed forces as well as employment for over 300,000 people across all regions of the country. You can see the video by clicking on this link.