Discover the pivotal role of British aircraft carriers in WW2 with our in-depth article. Explore the 7 most notable carriers, including the Ark Royal, Illustrious, and Victorious, and learn about their key contributions, such as convoy protection, naval battles, and D-Day operations, amidst carrier-based aircraft, naval warfare, and British military history.
The British Royal Navy played a crucial role in World War II, and its aircraft carriers were a vital part of its naval power. These floating airbases enabled the Royal Navy to project air power across the globe, providing air support for ground operations, protecting convoys, and engaging enemy ships. Here, we'll explore seven notable British aircraft carriers that served during World War II.
Development of British Aircraft Carriers
In the early 20th century, the British Royal Navy began to recognize the importance of aircraft carriers in modern naval warfare. The first British aircraft carrier, HMS Argus, was converted from a liner in 1918. However, it wasn't until the 1920s and 1930s that the Royal Navy started building purpose-designed aircraft carriers.
These early carriers were relatively small, with limited aircraft capacity and rudimentary facilities. However, as the threat of war loomed, the Royal Navy accelerated its aircraft carrier program, resulting in the construction of larger, more advanced carriers.
Aircraft Carrier Design and Technology
British aircraft carriers of World War II were designed with several key features in mind. These included:
- A sturdy, armored flight deck to protect against bomb and shell damage
- A hangar deck below the flight deck, where aircraft could be stored, maintained, and repaired
- A range of aircraft elevators to move planes between the hangar and flight decks
- A island or superstructure, housing the bridge, control tower, and other essential systems
- A range of anti-aircraft guns and defensive systems to protect against enemy air attacks
7 Notable British Aircraft Carriers of WW2
Here are seven notable British aircraft carriers that served during World War II:
1. HMS Ark Royal (91)
Commissioned in 1938, HMS Ark Royal was one of the most famous British aircraft carriers of World War II. With a length of 209 meters (686 feet) and a top speed of 31 knots (57 km/h), she was a formidable opponent. Ark Royal played a key role in several major naval battles, including the sinking of the German battleship Bismarck.
2. HMS Illustrious (R87)
HMS Illustrious was commissioned in 1940 and was one of the largest British aircraft carriers of the war. With a length of 227 meters (745 feet) and a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h), she was a powerful force. Illustrious played a key role in the Mediterranean theater, supporting Allied operations in North Africa and Italy.
3. HMS Victorious (R38)
HMS Victorious was commissioned in 1941 and was one of the most advanced British aircraft carriers of the war. With a length of 227 meters (745 feet) and a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h), she was a fast and agile opponent. Victorious played a key role in several major naval battles, including the sinking of the German battleship Tirpitz.
4. HMS Formidable (R67)
HMS Formidable was commissioned in 1940 and was one of the largest British aircraft carriers of the war. With a length of 227 meters (745 feet) and a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h), she was a powerful force. Formidable played a key role in the Mediterranean theater, supporting Allied operations in North Africa and Italy.
5. HMS Indomitable (R92)
HMS Indomitable was commissioned in 1941 and was one of the most advanced British aircraft carriers of the war. With a length of 227 meters (745 feet) and a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h), she was a fast and agile opponent. Indomitable played a key role in several major naval battles, including the Battle of Madagascar.
6. HMS Eagle (94)
HMS Eagle was commissioned in 1924 and was one of the oldest British aircraft carriers of the war. With a length of 207 meters (680 feet) and a top speed of 24 knots (44 km/h), she was a smaller but still formidable opponent. Eagle played a key role in the early years of the war, supporting Allied operations in the Mediterranean.
7. HMS Hermes (95)
HMS Hermes was commissioned in 1924 and was one of the oldest British aircraft carriers of the war. With a length of 207 meters (680 feet) and a top speed of 25 knots (46 km/h), she was a smaller but still formidable opponent. Hermes played a key role in the early years of the war, supporting Allied operations in the Indian Ocean.
Gallery of British Aircraft Carriers in WW2
British Aircraft Carriers in WW2 Image Gallery
We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at seven notable British aircraft carriers of World War II. These incredible ships played a vital role in the Allied victory, and their legacy continues to inspire and fascinate us today.