Royal Navy’s new aircraft carrier, the HMS Prince of Wales, better named Prince of Mishaps, sprung a serious leak that has put it out of commission until at least the spring. The leak has forced the cancellation of its participation in the military exercise in the U.S. to carry out tests with F-35 jets. This is the second leak since May.
“HMS Prince of Wales is alongside at HMNB Portsmouth conducting repairs following a flood in an engine room,” a spokesperson for the Royal Navy is quoted as saying by the Naval Technology media outlet.
According to an analysis produced by the “Save the Royal Navy” group, propulsion for each of the two aircraft carriers is provided by a complex electric drive system power for which is produced by four diesel engines and two marine gas turbines, reported “The War Zone” website. If the ship had been underway when the flood occurred, the disaster might have been much worse. “However, if elements of the electrical system were submerged in saltwater, then it will require stripping out and replacing, which will be costly and time-consuming,” the analysis said.
The leak involved a pipe breaking, which allowed salt water to flood the electrical compartment of the ship’s engine room . Who knows how long it will take to repair. The warship, apparently equipped with self-sinking technology, cost £3.1 billion. Not only is it missing its aircraft, but it also still has not received its full complement of radar systems, essential to protect it. Under the U.K.’s new military doctrine this ship is supposed to cruise the South China Sea to “contain” China. It might show the flag but not much else.
