Originally Posted by
tdracer
So why not provide it with cat/trap capabilities?
Good question! Initially, the plan was to operate the F35B, and hence no need for cats and traps. However, the carriers were to be designed for future conversaion to cats and traps, to future proof post F35B.
Then, F35C began to come into the picture. The defence review in 2010 proposed that we might sell one carrier (after the global financial crisis) and fit the other one with cats and traps for F35C.However, this was to utilise the EMALS from the Ford, which was proving troublesome and expensive. So before long, the idea began to falter.
The 2016 defence review reverted to F35B, and retention of both carriers, albeit with the second having enhanced amphibious (read Royal Marines) capability. So back to STOVL.
Theoretically, both could go CATOBAR in future if required, although it sounds like open-heart surgery!