Case Study: QE Class Aircraft Carrier

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The QE Class Aircraft Carrier vessels, with dimensions around 280 meters in length and a displacement of approximately 65,000 tonnes, are equipped to accommodate a formidable air wing, predominantly consisting of F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters along with various helicopters. Powered by advanced Rolls-Royce Marine turbines and diesel generators, they possess state-of-the-art command and control systems, extensive radar coverage, and defensive armament. With a crew complement of around 700, expandable to over 1,600 when embarked with the air wing, these carriers are designed for versatile operations, including power projection, humanitarian aid, and traditional naval warfare roles.

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Timeline

In 2007, the programme began with the official commencement of construction for HMS Queen Elizabeth, the lead ship of the class. 

In 2010, construction for HMS Prince of Wales, the second carrier, also commenced. 

In 2019, HMS Queen Elizabeth began conducting flight trials with F-35B Lightning II aircraft for the first time. 

In 2021, HMS Queen Elizabeth embarked on her maiden operational deployment, participating in various joint exercises and visits to allied countries. 

By January 2022, both were in active service with the Royal Navy, continually undergoing training and operational deployments to enhance their capabilities and readiness for global operations.

And in May 2023, during the Combined Naval Event 2023 conference in Farnborough, 'Project Ark Royal' was announced. This project aims to explore the widespread fielding of uncrewed aviation across the surface fleet, with a focus on future carrier aviation.

Capability

These vessels serve as mobile airbases, capable of deploying a mix of aircraft, including advanced F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters and various helicopters. Equipped with state-of-the-art command and control systems, radar arrays, and communication suites, these carriers maintain situational awareness and coordinate complex operations effectively. They also play a crucial role in supporting amphibious operations, enhancing expeditionary warfare capabilities and the projection of force ashore. With their global reach and interoperability with allied forces, the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers enhance the UK's ability to protect its interests, support international security efforts, and respond rapidly to emerging threats and crises across the globe.

Encoder Rings and Read Heads

Quantic Thistle was contracted by GE Verona to design and manufacture large magnetic ring encoders which were fitted around the dual 680mm drive shafts of the QE Class carriers, each ring having three separate read heads to deliver real time data on the position and speed of the dual drive shafts.

This position data enables the control systems to minimise cavitation-induced drag and noise. Moreover, the synchronisation facilitated by these encoders significantly enhances propulsion efficiency, thereby optimising power output while concurrently reducing noise generation. 

This dual benefit not only improves the QE class's overall performance but also renders it more difficult for other vessels to detect, thus bolstering its operational effectiveness.

Quantic Thistle's development of large magnetic ring encoders makes an important contribution towards maximising the QE class's operational prowess and ensuring its relevance in modern naval engagements.

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