SAASless,
Fair enough, can't argue with a degree of scepticism surrounding "invisible" protective systems.
But I do disagree with this constant claim that these carriers are just sitting ducks against a peer enemy, and your specific claim that they cannot survive in a real full on engagement with a top tier opponent. They will be protected by Type 23 Frigates and Type 45 Destroyers now, and you can add Type 26 and 31 Frigates to future years. These are top tier escorts with top tier AAW capabilities and as the UK is extremely unlikely to ever be operating wholly on its own, would be part of a coalition effort that would add significantly more protective assets. These UK escorts have spent the last decade escorting US and French carriers about the place, so now will instead have a national sovereign equivalent to escort.
As for decrying the lack of Sea Viper or Sea Ceptor on board, well, as they are carried by the escorts what would be the point? And the F-35B Lightning GR1 is itself no slouch when it comes to defending the carriers after all. Prior to the current two carriers the RN touted the last but one Ark Royal, the one with Phantoms/Buccaneers, as the most powerful warship ever fielded by the Royal Navy, and that was armed with nothing more than a pair of 4 pound saluting cannons, so this is hardly a new departure.