HMS Prince of Wales' long-awaited F-35 trials begin off US east coast

HMS Prince of Wales' much-anticipated F-35B flight trials have begun off the east coast of the US.

The Royal Navy is working to expand the operating limits of the jet, to develop advanced takeoff and landing techniques, allowing the aircraft to launch with more weapons.

An American test pilot from Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two Three (VX-23) flew to the UK's newest aircraft carrier, which left from Norfolk Naval Station, Virginia, on Tuesday.

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Around 200 personnel from the Pax River F-35 Integrated Test Force (ITF) embarked for up to four weeks of sea trials off the coast of the US Eastern Seaboard.

The ITF team will carry out a test plan and collect data to enhance the operating capability of the jet with the carrier.

Captain Richard Hewitt, HMS Prince of Wales Commanding Officer, witnessed the approach and vertical landing of the stealth jet and explained: "This is why we are here.

"Over the next few weeks, we will work together with the F-35 programme to increase the capability of the world's most advanced 5th generation stealth fighter alongside the UK's 5th generation aircraft carrier.

"During this phase of our deployment, we will see the jet develop advanced landing and takeoff techniques, allowing it to recover heavier, turn around faster, and launch with more weapons."

F-35B test pilot US Marine Major Paul Gucwa, the ITF test team project officer, said: "Our team has trained extensively to prepare for this day, and I was honoured to bring the capabilities of the F-35B back out to the Prince of Wales."

Andrew Maack, Pax River F-35 ITF chief test engineer and site director, said: "We are excited to be under way with the crew of Prince of Wales and honoured to contribute to the aircraft carrier's trials of pushing the boundaries of 21st-century carrier operations."