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Last week’s visit of aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth was seen as a political and symbolic victory in Gibraltar ahead of Brexit which was largely opposed by Gibraltarians. And once Britain has left the European Union the outpost at the tip of southern Spain will become a vital Mediterranean foothold for the UK’s armed forces. Plans to improve Gibraltar's naval base and to make the Rock a strategic point for the Royal Navy have been under discussion for years, according to military sources.

GETTY HMS Queen Elizabeth in Gibraltar

ROYAL NAVY HMS Queen Elizabeth docks in Gibraltar

But what is clear is that London wants to continue counting on the Rock as a strategic base for the Royal Navy Gibraltarian diplomat

And the Gibraltarian press has been reporting on MoD plans to expand the maritime facilities so a new generation of carriers can be comfortably accommodated. A Gibraltarian diplomat said: “It is not yet clear what the status of Gibraltar will be once the Brexit process is completed and the United Kingdom is definitively separated from the European Union. “But what is clear is that London wants to continue counting on the Rock as a strategic base for the Royal Navy.”

ROYAL NAVY Helicopters aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth

The 65,000 tonne, £3.1billion HMS Queen Elizabeth made her way through the Straits of Gibraltar in preparation for her first visit to the British overseas territory. As she sailed into port under close security escort from HMS Somerset and two Royal Navy patrol boats stationed in Gibraltar, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said the visit highlighted the Rock’s strategic role for UK military operations. He said: “As the Rock casts its shadow over the flight deck of our world-class aircraft carrier, Gibraltar rightfully marks HMS Queen Elizabeth’s first overseas stop as she refuels and takes on supplies before continuing her sea trials. “I’m sure our friends in Gibraltar will be proud to see our future flagship sail through British waters into their famous port.”

Things you may not know about Gibraltar Mon, April 3, 2017 Gibraltar is a confusing place, especially if you have never been yourself Play slideshow REUTERS 1 of 9 Gibraltar has its own political system that makes many decisions within the territory but issues like defence and foreign affairs are determined by the UK Government in London