Oxford URNU visits HMS Queen Elizabeth

Oxford University Royal Naval Unit (URNU) recently paid a visit to its affiliated ship, the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth.

The tour was led by Chief Petty Officer Dave Britchford, the Chief Writer on board, and allowed the visiting Officer Cadets to see a large amount of the ship.

In particular the group were impressed by the huge Hangar, Ops Room, Flight Deck, Bridge and Wardroom. The Officer Cadets left the ship in awe of its scale and having had a tremendously positive experience.

Lieutenant 'Freddy' Mounsey RN, also visiting with the unit, said, "Having served in HMS Illustrious it was a great pleasure to see the new Queen Elizabeth Class Carrier as the ship is such an exciting capability and such a significant increase in capability over the Invincible Class Carriers".

Lieutenant Will Jones RN, Commanding Officer Oxford URNU said, "The colossal ship brings a huge amount of capability to the Royal Navy and the visiting students were in awe at the opportunity to see a Queen Elizabeth Class up close".

2018 is 'The Year of Engineering' in the Royal Navy and Oxford is one of 15 URNUs located across the UK offering opportunities to 750 undergraduates from the country’s leading universities.

The URNU's mission is: "To develop an understanding of the Naval Service in undergraduates, so that those who go into civilian employment are positive advocates thereof and to facilitate a Naval Career for those who choose one."

The URNU is a chance to experience military life without commitment and gain new skills applicable to all walks of life.