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Queen Elizabeth Class Battleships - 1914

The "Queen Elizabeth" and the "Valiant" were virtually rebuilt in the late 1930s at a cost almost equal to what the House of Commons voted for them when they were first laid down in 1912. It was a case of building a new cask round the old bung-hole, but they cost between £2 million and £3 million. Their return to the Fleet in 1940 was eagerly awaited, and they they played a part in the war.

Owing to very heavy damage while in the East Indies, HMS "Valiant" was taken in hand at Devonport from 14th February, 1945, to 20th April, 1946, for refit, damage repairs, and alterations and additions, to prepare her for service in the Pacific. The main engines were not removed. Improvements were made to living and working conditions and these70W included additional ventilation, air conditioning, W.C. and bathroom facilities, evaporating plant, refrigerating plant and water coolers, and mess space. Improvements were also made to the cinema.

The radar was modernised and minor improvements were made to W/T, and the action information center. Improved air defence and damage control positions were fitted and internal communications were brought up to date. Improvements were made to the existing H/A and L/A fire control, and one 8-barrel porn-porn and four saluting guns were fitted. Existing workshops were improved, an additional workshop was fitted, and improvements were also made to control arrangements for electric generating plant. The cost of the alterations was £100,000 before V/J Day and £120,000 afterwards. In addition, HMS "Valiant" had to undergo extensive repairs. HMS "Valiant" on completion of her refit was attached to the Stokers' Establishment at Devonport from 21st June, 1946.

HMS "Queen Elizabeth" arrived in the United Kingdom from the Eastern Fleet in August, 1945. Until she reduced to reserve at Portsmouth 71W on 12th February, 1946, she was administered by the Commander-in-Chief, Home Fleet.

HMS "Renown" arrived in the United Kingdom from the East Indies Fleet in April, 1945. She was used as accommodation ship at Plymouth from 1st September, 1945.