The 570-tonne block – known as Sponson 11 – was the final section of the 280-metre-long warship to be manufactured. In an historic moment, HRH Duke of Rothesay gave the order for the massive section, which includes part of the flight deck, to be lowered into place by the Goliath crane. This allows the final welding to start in order to make the carrier structurally complete.

Ian Booth, Managing Director of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance, said: “By the end of July we will have finished welding the final section together and the ship will be structurally complete, thanks to the commitment, skills and experience of the Alliance workforce. The team will now embark on the next phase of the ship’s construction. This involves extensive outfitting, testing and commissioning of her propulsion and mission systems, as the ship is brought to life.  The ship will then start her harbour trials here in Rosyth before setting off for sea trials in 2019.”

John Howie, Chief Executive – Marine & Technology Division, Babcock International, and a member of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance’s Management Board, said: “This moment marks the end of eight years of manufacturing for the Queen Elizabeth Class programme at our six shipyards across the UK. I know I speak on behalf of more than 10,000 workers who have contributed to the design and build of the Queen Elizabeth Class carriers when I say we are honoured to have HRH Duke of Rothesay here to mark this important occasion.”

Captain Ian Groom MBE, Senior Naval Officer for HMS PRINCE OF WALES, said: “We were delighted to have HRH Duke of Rothesay here today to mark such a significant milestone in the life of the ship, drawing the construction phase of the Royal Navy’s second Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier to a close.  The focus now moves to commissioning the ship and my team will continue to work with their industry partners to bring her to life ahead of sea trials.”