HMS Eagle

Eagle's Crest

H.M.S. EAGLE 1964 - 1966

*Please Note this page is always under construction*

Initially laid down in 1942 at Harland and Wolff's, Belfast yard as 'Audacious' (first of four projected carriers of the Audacious Class ) She was launched as 'Eagle' (the fifteenth Royal Navy ship to be so named) in March 1946 after the proposed ship of that name was subsequently cancelled. Her sister ship; although proposed as 'Irresitible' became the 'Ark Royal'. The sisters became the two largest British Carriers built to date.

White Ensign

'Eagle' was first commissioned in 1952. In 1959 She was taken to Devonport Dockyard for an extensive refit and modernisation.

She was re-commissioned in 1964 a very new and different ship. In addition to major improvements to her accommodation, machinery and weaponry she also acquired an angled deck, enlarged island and as a result of all these plus more changes; an increased displacement (+50,000 tons) making her the largest ship in the Royal Navy.

Leaving Malta 1965

My Stepdad; 'Spike' Hughes served aboard Eagle 1964 to 1966 as a NAM (Naval Air Mechanic) with 800B Flight (Scimitar aircraft) the flight's logo was a brimming over beer tankard, used as a result of sponsorship from a major brewery - drink never being far from a servicemans thoughts.....

Scimitar Tanker of 800B Flight