King Charles made a notable visit to the Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, as it prepares for its deployment to Japan.
The 76-year-old monarch arrived via helicopter in high spirits, taking the opportunity to express his gratitude to the sailors ahead of their major manoeuvres in the Indo-Pacific.
His visit marks a significant moment for the Royal Navy, as the ship prepares for a vital mission.
A Heartfelt Address to the Crew
During his visit, Charles, dressed in his uniform as Commodore-in-Chief, Aircraft Carriers, delivered a powerful message to the crew.
Addressing them on the deck, he praised the ship’s impressive capabilities, highlighting the hard work and commitment of the men and women onboard.
“This ship represents a powerful emblem of the skill, ingenuity, and strength of the Royal Navy,” he remarked.
“I take immense pride in you, the men and women who bring this vessel to life.”
Touring the Aircraft Carrier and Reflecting on Past Experiences
The monarch was given a tour of the massive 65,000-tonne warship, watching as F-35B Lightning jets performed landing exercises on the deck.
As part of the visit, he also reflected on his own past experiences, recalling a flight he took nearly 50 years ago as Prince of Wales.
The Royal Family’s social media accounts shared black-and-white images of a young Charles, then around 29 years old, when he flew in a jet to an aircraft carrier in 1977.
Global Deployment Preparation
The visit comes as the Royal Navy is finalizing preparations for HMS Prince of Wales’s deployment later this spring
. This marks a significant mission, with the ship set to sail to Japan.
The aircraft carrier will be home to a variety of fighters, helicopters, and drones during its global deployment.
Charles’s visit is seen as a morale booster for the crew, with the ship’s Commanding Officer, Captain Will Blackett, expressing pride in showing the monarch the ship’s readiness.
A Royal Legacy of Naval Engagement
Charles’s engagement with the Royal Navy continues the tradition of the monarchy’s involvement with the armed forces.
His mother, Queen Elizabeth, last visited an aircraft carrier in 2021 when she toured HMS Queen Elizabeth in Portsmouth.
The Queen was also the last reigning monarch to visit a warship at sea, a visit that took place in 1988 aboard HMS Brocklesby with Prince Philip.
Charles’s Heartfelt Gratitude for the Crew
During his address, Charles acknowledged the challenges ahead for the Royal Navy personnel, especially as they prepare for their deployment in an unpredictable world.
He emphasized the critical importance of their service, stating that their work helps ensure the safety and prosperity of the United Kingdom and its allies.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by their families, expressing his heartfelt gratitude for their dedication.
Royal Navy’s High Morale and Readiness
The visit was also a morale boost for the crew. Able Seaman Marc Rutherford, who met Charles on the ship’s bridge, described it as “the proudest day” of his life.
Former naval personnel also shared their thoughts, with one revealing that Charles, despite being prone to seasickness during his service in the Royal Navy, was “the best ship handler by far.”
King Charles Hosts Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
In addition to his royal engagements with the military, King Charles also welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to his Sandringham estate.
The meeting was seen as a significant moment, with Trudeau emphasizing the importance of Canadian sovereignty and independence.
Their friendly interaction further highlighted the ease of their relationship, with Trudeau gesturing toward the monarch and shaking hands in a warm exchange.
The Ongoing Role of the Royal Family in Diplomacy
As King Charles continues to take on a more prominent role in global affairs, his interactions with leaders such as Prime Minister Trudeau reflect the ongoing diplomatic importance of the Royal Family.
The monarch’s engagement with various world leaders, including his recent show of solidarity with Ukraine’s President Zelensky, underscores the significance of the British monarchy on the world stage.