King Charles pays a flying visit to Royal Navy's flagship HMS Prince of Wales

The King flew out to the English Channel to visit HMS Princes of Wales to see first-hand the preparations the carrier is making before setting sail for Japan in the spring.

It is the first time in nearly 40 years that a reigning monarch has joined a Royal Navy warship at sea.

King Charles visited in his role as the Honorary Commodore-in-Chief Aircraft Carrier and Head of the Armed Forces, meeting Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel on board the aircraft carrier.

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The flagship is in the closing stages of intensive training ahead of deployment in the Indo-Pacific region aimed at deepening the UK's defence partnerships and promoting security and stability.

"As you prepare to set sail as the flagship of the UK Carrier Strike Group, building on the success of HMS Queen Elizabeth's inaugural deployment in 2021, I just wanted to express, on behalf of the nation, my heartfelt gratitude for the extraordinarily valuable contributions and personal sacrifices that you and your families continue to make in the name of duty," said King Charles.

"I can sense the anticipation and excitement amongst many of you today for what lies ahead over the next eight months, and all I can say is I will be watching your progress with great interest."

The King was hosted by HMS Prince of Wales's Commanding Officer, Captain Will Blackett, who showed him around the bridge.

"It was a great honour to host His Majesty on board today," he said. "I was able to show him firsthand that HMS Prince of Wales is at high readiness, standing by to deliver for the UK when ordered."

"His visit was a great source of morale for my excellent ship's company and we look forward to doing him proud in all our endeavours this year."

The King also watched F-35B Lightning jets operating from the vast flight deck – which will be home to fighters, helicopters and drones during the global deployment.