Giant UK aircraft carrier built 'block by block'

The shipbuilding effort to construct the UK's second giant aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, passed a milestone when it was officially named last week.

And yesterday dramatic time-lapse video was released by its makers showing the 'block-by block' construction of the 65,000 tonne warship that will enter service with the Royal Navy in 2020.

The vessel was built in sections at different plants around the UK to spread the economic impact before it was then assembled in Rosyth, Scotland, reports The Maritime Executive.

Footage shows some of the army of workers building the giant aircraft carrier which is constructed from 17 million parts.

It took 51 million man hours to build HMS Prince of Wales and her sister ship HMS Queen Elizabeth, according to the Royal Navy.

Both vessels will play a big part in Britain's defence efforts, with each carrying 30 hi-tech F35 fighter jets and four helicopters.

Last Friday, the Duchess of Cornwall officially named HMS Prince of Wales watched by her husband Prince Charles.