Widger - concur all VMF's promise. But! EBAO aside, I repeat the question, when can we conceive of doing it, without the US running the show? IE, what a frickin' expensive business to get into, when perhaps the money could be spent elsewhere to enhance other capabilities. Still very joint and with much effect from the sea.
Admiral's opinion or no. I suspect the answer is a bit difficult to fathom. And if it's difficult then why kiss billions goodbye on a pair of (albeit impressive) capital ships that will deliver little in true utility.
I'm not any Service-centric, just interested in the best for us all.