HMS Queen Elizabeth leaves Portsmouth for United States top stories direct to your inbox SUBSCRIBE Invalid email Sign up to receive our rundown of the day'sdirect to your inbox When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. The £3.1billion behemoth - dubbed ‘Big Lizzie’ - set sail from Portsmouth on its way to the United States where warplanes will land on its flight deck for the first time. The two F-35B aircraft, based in Maryland, will touch down on the 65,000-tonne vessel before becoming the first fighters to launch from a British carrier in nearly a decade. While the training jets are the property of the US military, the honour of landing the first one will go to a British pilot. A further 500 test landings and take-offs are expected to take place during HMS Queen Elizabeth’s 11 weeks at sea. HMS Queen Elizabeth set sail from Portsmouth this evening Large crowds watched on as the carrier made its way out of Portsmouth Naval Base this evening. The vessel is scheduled to carry out tests in UK waters before embarking across the Atlantic. During its time in the US it will visit New York amid rumours President Donald Trump could take a tour. Navy chiefs have pledged the vessel will have the protection needed to counter the "eye-watering" threat of Russian submarines during its transatlantic trip. HMS Queen Elizabeth is bound for the US where F-35B jets will land on its deck for the first time The £3.1billion aircraft carrier will become the Royal Navy's flagship Commodore Andrew Betton, commander of the UK Carrier Strike Group, said: "Russian submarines are more active in the North Atlantic than they have been since the Cold War and we take that very seriously, the ship will be well protected as she makes her transit across the Atlantic. "We will seek to operate professionally and within the standard laws of the high seas operating in international waters going about our business. "We are not seeking confrontation, we are heading to the east coast of the United States to conduct trials." Large crowds turned out to see HMS Queen Elizabeth depart Portsmouth Naval Base Captain Jerry Kyd, the carrier's commanding officer, said: “This deployment to the United States will be another first for my ship. “Crossing a major ocean with 1,500 sailors, aircrew and marines embarked and the spectre of the first F-35B Lightning landing on the deck in September is very exciting for us all. “It has been an incredible journey since we left Rosyth just over a year ago and we are all looking forward to this next seminal chapter in HMS Queen Elizabeth's life.” HMS Queen Elizabeth will undergo 500 test landings and take offs during her 11-week deployment<doc-sep>Britain's largest-ever warship, the HMS Queen Elizabeth, is joining forces with the American-made most powerful stealth fighter jets in the world. The ship is the first of the Queen Elizabeth (QE) Class aircraft carriers and is embarking on its very first trans-Atlantic journey. The giant warship will arrive off the eastern coast of the United States, where it will start the first flight trials with the fifth-generation Lightning II Joint Strike fighter jets. Three times the size of the Royal Navy's previous Invincible Class Aircraft Carriers, the HMS Queen Elizabeth is an approximately 65,000-ton, four-acre flight decked, mobile floating military platform, which will allow America's steadfast ally to contribute even more power to future combat. HMS Queen Elizabeth and the HMS Prince of Wales represent £6.2 billion worth of new, futuristic, state of the art, warships that this key ally can soon bring to the table should the need for joint-action arise. With the HMS Queen Elizabeth, the British military will be able to bring even more aircraft to a situation and significantly boost the number of sorties. The U.S. Marine Corps also flies the F-35B. As part of joint-action, U.S. Marine pilots and aircraft will be able to easily fly missions together from the HMS Queen Elizabeth. With the threat of adversaries with advanced technology looming, seamless, smart collaboration between allies like the combined might of the HMS Queen Elizabeth and the F-35 fighters is increasingly vital and urgent. Giant Warship, Huge Capabilities Even though it is a giant warship, the Queen Elizabeth's design is so advanced it can be run with a surprisingly small crew compared to previous U.K. aircraft carriers. Take the weapons handling onboard, for example. This system is designed to move armaments to the flight deck six times faster than before while requiring only about a third of the crew. Overall, the HMS Queen Elizabeth carries a crew of 679 and embarked forces up to 921. Month by month, the HMS Queen Elizabeth continues to rapidly expand the capabilities the warship can bring to the fight. The carrier has already finished completed rotary wing trials with more than one thousand helicopter deck landings with Chinook Mk 5 helicopters and Merlin Mk 2s in all sorts of weather conditions. Royal Marine commandos have also already conducted amphibious warfare trials including an air assault from the HMS Queen Elizabeth. In 2014, lead ship HMS Queen Elizabeth first left her Scottish dockyard soon followed by the HMS Prince of Wales two weeks later. Just four years later, the futuristic aircraft carrier has already conducted sea trials, been commissioned into the Royal Navy and now will integrate the most advanced fighter jets in the world further augmenting the power it can project. Once HMS Queen Elizabeth reaches the United States, the Royal Navy will be collaborating with the U.S. military to run the very first trials of F-35B carrier landings. What Will the American-Designed Fighters Provide? The world's most powerful stealth fighter jet, the F-35 Lightning II Joint-Strike Fighter is a result of teamwork and astonishing innovation from a number of American companies with Lockheed Martin at the lead. These fighters have a slew of extremely advanced unprecedented capabilities. There are three variants and each provides its own unique advantages. Incredibly fast, it flies at supersonic speeds of Mach 1.6. The situational awareness is truly remarkable. These fighters have astounding stealth, allowing them to penetrate deep into enemy territory and never be detected. The British military has opted to buy and fly the F-35B variant also flown by the U.S. Marine Corps. The F-35B variant is just over 51 feet long with a wingspan of 35 feet. It has a combat radius of greater than 450 nautical miles. To give you a sense of the power, this fighter has a vertical thrust of 40,500 pounds. These fighters are powerfully armed and able to carry 15,000 pounds of weapons. For example, they can carry extremely destructive and lethal weapons like two AIM-120C/D air-to-air missiles and two 1,000-pound GBU-32 JDAM guided bombs. The British will fly the variant that provides short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL), which is ideal for aircraft carriers. Even though the HMS Queen Elizabeth is 280 meters (919 feet) long, it is still very challenging to land one of the world's fastest fighters on aircraft carrier runways that are quite short compared to those available at bases -- not to mention ocean conditions that create constantly shifting and unpredictably moving runways. The STOVL also provides the added advantage that both militaries will be able to land at rudimentary bases in war zones without proper runways. Seems mind-boggling that such a powerful, supersonic speed fighter can also land vertically -- sort of like a helicopter does -- but it has been achieved. The F-35B has a very special shaft-driven lift fan propulsion system instead of a conventional direct-lift approach. A special approach to landing, called the "SRVL," is being developed for the Royal Navy to use for their fighters on the HMS Queen Elizabeth class carriers. Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landing uses both the vertical thrust from the jet engine and lift from the wings. The goal is for these rolling landings to enable the fighters to land on the HMS Queen Elizabeth carriers with a bigger weapon load as well as with more fuel. The HMS Queen Elizabeth can reach speeds of 25 knots with a range of about 10,000 miles -- but speed and range are nothing compared to the astonishing cutting-edge tech, advanced weaponry and powerful capabilities this floating military platform can bring anywhere in the world. In addition to the fifth-generation fighter jets, the HMS Queen Elizabeth incorporates a wide array of other cutting-edge advances - including some more American-designed ones. Another American company's innovation found on the HMS Queen Elizabeth is the Raytheon Phalanx Close-In weapon system. There are three Phalanxes that can be used to shoot down aircraft, drones, swarming small attack boats and even incoming missiles as a last-ditch effort to protect the carrier. To help pilots land, the HMS Queen Elizabeth uses the American-designed AN/SPN-41/41A Instrument Carrier Landing System that transmits flight path information to the aircraft as they approach the warship. In fact, the fighter pilots will be able to see this data in their incredibly futuristic head-up display. F-35 pilots wear astonishing helmets that even allow them to "see through" the floor of their aircraft straight through to the sea or ground below. Jet blast temperatures can reach a staggering 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit. Picture the giant, powerful, fiery blasts aimed toward the deck as the fighters execute their vertical landings -- it could very easily burn through multiple floors of a ship. A remarkable thermal metal coating was developed to shield flight decks from jet blast and this has been sprayed on sections of the HMS Queen Elizabeth's flight deck. When Will It Be Up and Running? Ultimately, it is expected a total of 138 F-35B fighter jets will eventually join the British military. So far, they have fifteen of the current order for 48 aircraft. Within a mere two years, the HMS Queen Elizabeth will reach carrier strike full operational capability with its first operational deployment expected the following year.<doc-sep>BRITAIN'S new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth set sail today - as navy chiefs warned of an "eye-watering" threat from Russian hunter subs. Crowds packed into Portsmouth harbour to wave Big Lizzie goodbye from Portsmouth Naval Base this evening, as US fighter jets prepare to land on board for the very first time. 15 Large crowds watched the £3billion warship leave Portsmouth Naval Base for its maiden voyage on Saturday Credit: SWNS:South West News Service The £3billion carrier will be accompanied by 1,500 sailors, aircrew and marines as it carries out flight trials and encompasses a visit to New York on a nearly three-month voyage. Commodore Andrew Betton, commander of the UK Carrier Strike Group, said they would operate "professionally and within the standard laws of the high seas". He said: "Russian submarines are more active in the North Atlantic than they have been since the Cold War and we take that very seriously, the ship will be well protected as she makes her transit across the Atlantic. "We are not seeking confrontation, we are heading to the east coast of the United States to conduct trials." 15 The sun broke briefly through the clouds as Brits gathered to bid adieu to the trusty warship Credit: PA:Press Association 15 Crowds gather to watch the ship make her maiden voyage to the US Credit: PA:Press Association 15 Jubilant crowds filled the port as they waved farewell to the 1,500 strong crew on board Credit: PA:Press Association 15 HMS Queen Elizabeth leaves Portsmouth Harbour in Hampshire for the US to undergo flight trials with the F35B for the first time 15 A naval band performed as Big Lizzie got underway for its 11 week voyage Over the course of its trip, the £3billion warship will embark two US F-35B test aircraft based at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, which are expected to carry out 500 landings and take-offs during the carrier's 11 weeks at sea. Captain Jerry Kyd, the carrier's commanding officer, said: "The increase in Russian activity we have seen in the last couple of years is frightening and for national security reasons it just underlines why we need to maintain a balanced, strong and able, capable fleet. "It's been quite eye-watering what we have seen in the last couple of years." Capt Kyd said: "This deployment to the United States will be another first for my ship. 15 Excited fans celebrate the voyage to New York Credit: PA:Press Association 15 Crew line the vast carrier as they set off for New York for the first voyage of its kind 15 The hulking warship was waved off by legions of fans 15 The sun broke briefly through the clouds as Brits gathered to bid adieu to the trusty aircraft carrier Credit: PA:Press Association 15 The 900ft carrier will be undergoing flight trials in the US for the first time "It has been an incredible journey since we left Rosyth just over a year ago and we are all looking forward to this next seminal chapter in HMS Queen Elizabeth's life." He added: "People are looking forward to seeing the jets because we have been talking about them for flipping years. "There's a lot of excitement on board." Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "HMS Queen Elizabeth is a true statement of our national power and the whole country can be proud to see this magnificent symbol of our engineering prowess and international ambition leaving port to sail on to the world stage. 15 Eighteen bags of onions are stacked in the hangar of HMS Queen Elizabeth, as final preparations are made prior to her setting sail 15 Able Seaman Ryan Whatmore polishes the name board of HMS Queen Elizabeth ahead of the voyage "Her voyage to America not only shows her global reach but strengthens our special relationship with the US forces who we have worked hand-in-hand with on this iconic programme. "As she sails along the east coast of the USA, she will signal our determination to keep fighting alongside our allies in all corners of an ever more complex and uncertain world." The honour of landing the first of the training jets on to the carrier will go to one of three British pilots taking part in the US deployment. They are a Royal Navy commander, an RAF squadron leader and a civilian test pilot accompanied by a major from the US Marine Corps. 15 A F-35B Lightning II lands at the US Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Credit: EPA 15 HMS Queen Elizabeth on its first overseas voyage to Gibraltar in February Credit: EPA Cdre Betton added: "These first F-35B embarked trials in a UK aircraft carrier are not only key to future operational success but represent an iconic moment for the modern Royal Navy." On leaving Portsmouth, HMS Queen Elizabeth will carry out tests in UK waters before heading across the Atlantic to the US where as well as the tests, she will visit New York. She will be joined by support ship RFA Tiderace and Plymouth-based Type-23 frigate HMS Monmouth as well as Merlin MK2 helicopters from 820 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Culdrose, Mk 4 Merlins from 845 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Yeovilton, and Royal Marines from 42 Commando, Plymouth. The first of the UK's joint Royal Navy and RAF F-35B supersonic jets arrived from America in June and are based at RAF Marham in Norfolk. MOST READ NEWS 'GOBSMACKED' Queen 'gave Harry OK for Oprah series after misleading pitch about soldiers' ROD LIDDLE Ousting right-on National Trust boss is a victory against wokery DRUMMER DEAD School Of Rock star dies at 32 after being hit by car as Jack Black mourns HOUSE ABOUT IT You won't believe what this ordinary London home looks like on the inside Exclusive TOM'S LEGACY Captain Tom Moore — who raised £39m for charity — left family £73k in will JABS HOPE Scientists 'crack cause of blood clots linked to Covid jabs & know how to fix it' Testing with these British aircraft is expected to take place on board HMS Queen Elizabeth next year. She has already undergone training with helicopters which have carried out more than 1,000 take-offs and landings. The carrier is expected to embark on its first operational deployment in 2021. 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Britain's largest warship, HMS Queen Elizabeth, has left Portsmouth to embark on its maiden voyage. Navy chiefs have pledged to protect the 70,000-ton carrier from the "eye-watering" threat of Russian submarines as it sails to the US. Two F-35 fighter jets will be flown on to her deck for the first time during the 11-week trip across the Atlantic. The voyage will include flight trials and a stop at New York. The honour of landing the first of the training jets on to the carrier will go to one of three British pilots taking part in the US deployment. HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH departing her homeport for #Westlant18 and #F35ondeck 🇬🇧🇺🇸 https://t.co/yESuyNriTJ — HMS Queen Elizabeth (@HMSQnlz) August 18, 2018 They are a Royal Navy commander, an RAF squadron leader and a civilian test pilot accompanied by a major from the US Marine Corps. HMS Elizabeth has already undergone training with helicopters which have carried out more than 1,000 take-offs and landings. The carrier is expected to embark on its first operational deployment in 2021. Commodore Andrew Betton, commander of the UK Carrier Strike Group, said the carrier would be provided full protection in the face of threats from Russia during its maiden voyage. He said: "Russian submarines are more active in the North Atlantic than they have been since the Cold War and we take that very seriously, the ship will be well protected as she makes her transit across the Atlantic. Image: Crowds gathered in Portsmouth to watch as HMS Elizabeth set off "We will seek to operate professionally and within the standard laws of the high seas operating in international waters going about our business. "We are not seeking confrontation, we are heading to the east coast of the United States to conduct trials." Captain Jerry Kyd, the carrier's commanding officer, said: "The increase in Russian activity we have seen in the last couple of years is frightening and for national security reasons it just underlines why we need to maintain a balanced, strong and able, capable fleet. "It's been quite eye-watering what we have seen in the last couple of years." When the carrier arrives in the US, two F-35B test aircraft based in Maryland are expected to carry out 500 landings and take-offs. Image: Commanding officer of HMS Queen Elizabeth, Captain Jerry Kyd Capt Kyd said: "This deployment to the United States will be another first for my ship. "Crossing a major ocean with 1,500 sailors, aircrew and marines embarked and the spectre of the first F-35B Lightning landing on the deck in September is very exciting for us all. "It has been an incredible journey since we left Rosyth just over a year ago and we are all looking forward to this next seminal chapter in HMS Queen Elizabeth's life." He added: "People are looking forward to seeing the jets because we have been talking about them for flipping years. "There's a lot of excitement on board." Image: The carrier is embarked on an 11-week trip across the Atlantic Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "HMS Queen Elizabeth is a true statement of our national power and the whole country can be proud to see this magnificent symbol of our engineering prowess and international ambition leaving port to sail on to the world stage. "Her voyage to America not only shows her global reach but strengthens our special relationship with the US forces who we have worked hand-in-hand with on this iconic programme. "As she sails along the east coast of the USA, she will signal our determination to keep fighting alongside our allies in all corners of an ever more complex and uncertain world." HMS Elizabeth will be joined by support ship RFA Tiderace and Plymouth-based Type-23 frigate HMS Monmouth, as well as Merlin MK2 helicopters from 820 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Culdrose, Mk 4 Merlins from 845 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Yeovilton, and Royal Marines from 42 Commando, Plymouth.