The CVF is flag waving. If we wanted AD or CAS a far far better job could be done from Akrotiri, along with E3D, AAR and all other required support. The CVF is not needed against the Lebanese/Hizbollah and would have no chance against the Israelis.
HMS Bulwark provides the required amphibious landing capability and C2, the Chinooks providing the needed helo lift, the evacuees can then be ferried to Akrotiri. All the CVF will provide is extra deck space for more helos.
Pragmatically, I'd fly off the fixed wing assets to Akro and offer the deck space to the French, Italian or any other nation who need somewhere to stage their helos through. It would free up more space on board and they can operate from a proper airfield....
