Portal:World War II/Equipment/5

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The Illustrious-class was a class of aircraft carrier of the Royal Navy that were some of the most important British warships in World War II. They were laid down in the late 1930s as part of the rearmament of the Royal Navy in response to the threats of Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Imperial Japan.

Each of these ships played a prominent part in the battles of WWII. Victorious took part in the chase of the Bismarck, Illustrious and Formidable played prominent parts in the battles in the Mediterranean during 1940 and 1941 and all three took part in the large actions of the British Pacific Fleet in 1945.

The Illustrious class consisted of three vessels; Illustrious, Formidable and Victorious. Three further similar ships were built as the war progressed, to modified designs in order that they could carry larger air wings. Indomitable had a second half-length hangar deck below the main hangar deck and the two ships of the Implacable-class, Implacable and Indefatigable had two hangar levels, albeit with a limiting 14 feet head room.