British HMS Illustrious (R06) Aircraft Carriers Sails into Valletta, Malta

HMS Illustrious (R06), Invincible-class light aircraft carriers of the Royal Navy sails into Valletta, Malta for five day visit by the Response Force Task group (RFTG).

HMS Illustrious (R06) became operational after a £40 million refit last year and is operated as one of two RN's helicopter carriers after the retirement of Harrier II vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) fighter jets.

HMS Illustrious (R06) will withdrawn from service by 2014.