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This image shows the mind-bending specifications of HMS Queen Elizabeth, the £3 billion British warship that dwarfs the Niagara Falls

On Monday, the HMS Queen Elizabeth cast off for sea trials — her maiden voyage.

The QE Class aircraft carrier took eight years to construct (six years behind schedule) and cost the Royal Navy £3.5 billion. The result, though, is a ship longer than the Houses of Parliament and more powerful than anything in British naval history.

It is equipped to defend, not attack, so comes with the latest Phalanx close-in weapon system, 30mm guns and mini-guns. The ship also has its own police cells and hospital.

An infographic released by the Aircraft Carrier Alliance details the specifications of the boat:

Infographic details locations within the biggest surface warship built for the Royal Navy, HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Infographic details locations within the biggest surface warship built for the Royal Navy, HMS Queen Elizabeth.

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Here are some stats that put the Queen Elizabeth into perspective:

  • The ship's propellers will output enough power to run 1,000 cars.

  • It's taller than the Niagara Falls.

  • The flight deck has enough space for three football pitches.

  • The aircraft lifts can move two F-35 fighter jets from hanger to deck in 60 seconds — it could also lift the entire ship's crew.

  • The onboard power system could boil 300,000 kettles.

  • It has 45 days' worth of food in its stores.

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