Launched 7 October 1942 and commissioned on 31 May 1943, HMS Emperor was a Ruler-class escort carrier operated by the Royal Navy during the Second World War. Initially built for the US Navy, she was allocated to Britain under the lend-lease agreement.
Allocated to the Home Fleet, Emperor took part in offensive operations against German forces in Norwegian waters. This included Operation Tungsten the attack on Tirpitz.
From July to November 1944, Emperor operating the Mediterranean and took part in Operation Dragoon, the invasion of Southern France.
HMS Emperor was transferred to the Far East in 1945, where she undertook strikes against Japanese positions, the re-occupation of Rangoon and Singapore. Post war she was returned to US control where she was scrapped in 1946.
Fusing of a 250 lbs bomb Sep 1944Armourers with bombs, HMS EmperorArmourers with bombs, HMS Emperor500 pound bombs Aug 1944250 lbs bomb being loaded on to a Hellcat. Sep 1944Armourer’s daily inspection of the guns of HMS Emperor’s Supermarine Walrus. Sep 1944
Aircraft Operations
Fairey Barracuda
Fairey Barracuda Mk.IIs photographed from the deck of HMS Emperor, return from the second strike in Operation Tungsten
Grumman Avenger
Grumman Avenger of either No. 845 or No. 851 Squadrons is shown taking off from HMS Emperor May 1945