HMS Prince of Wales homeward bound after successful sea and air trials in US

HMS Prince of Wales is on her way back to the UK after being deployed to the eastern United States for sea and air trials.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the aircraft carrier's account showed a timelapse video of the ship leaving Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia.

"Final port visit complete. We are on our way home! 3500 NM to run…" the post said.

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HMS Prince of Wales had been in the US for long-awaited training with US aircraft.

The deployment had been delayed after the carrier broke down in waters near Portsmouth after leaving the naval base for the US last year.

The commanding officer of the ship played down the amount of time HMS Prince of Wales was in the dry dock and said the crew spent the time preparing and enhancing the ship's capabilities for the deployment.

The deployment in the US saw F-35B Lightnings operating in 'Beast Mode' from HMS Prince of Wales, helping to push the jets' capabilities.

Aside from F-35B training, the deployment also saw a very special guest join the crew aboard the carrier.

Lieutenant Commander Ike, a yellow Labrador works as a US Navy therapy dog, and joined the crew.