The computer-generated image has been created to give an impression of the scale of the next generation of warships which are due to enter service in 2015.

It shows one of the carriers alongside at Portsmouth Naval Base, Hampshire, where it would take up three jetties.

The ships will be the biggest and most powerful warships ever designed and built in the UK.

They will be 70 metres wide and the flight deck area is equivalent to 49 tennis courts or three football pitches and large enough to take up to 40 aircraft.

The Government has given the go-ahead for the creation of the HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales despite criticism that the funding would be better spent elsewhere in the armed forces.

Captain Paul Lemkes, deputy naval base commander, said: ‘The image brings home the sheer scale of our future aircraft carriers and there is a great deal of work in hand to ensure that the naval base is ready to support them when they enter service.

‘As well as bringing a much-needed addition to the UK’s joint military capability, they will be a magnificent sight and will, undoubtedly, make a huge impact on the Portsmouth skyline when alongside as well as generating great interest throughout the region.’

Preliminary work is already under way in the naval base to accommodate the vessels.

Assessments to define the exact work required have been completed and an impact study is under way to identify any measures required to safeguard the environment.

Three jetties on the western edge of the base will have to be upgraded and extra shore services will be needed, including an increase in electrical supply.

Approach channels to the base will have to be dredged to a depth of 10.5 metres – current depth is 9.5 metres – to cope with the ships, which will have a full displacement of 65,000 tonnes.