The events of the last week demonstrate the utility and flexability of embarked aviation, carriers, and naval forces in general. They also demonstrate the need for the UK to have the means to be taken seriously on the diplomatic front, and have influence.
Remember what Stalin said when asked what he thought of the Pope?
How many divisions does he have?
The future carriers are key to Britain's future expeditionary war fighting capability. But they are also key to our ability to be strong for peace. The Government seems to ignore that, despite the desire to be "a force for good".
Not_a_boffin air defence stuff has been discussed elsewhere. I agree with you - as the
Sea Jet thread shows.
Does/will the mini wing on the Merlin fold, as deck space and hangar space need to be used wisely?
Another topic, is there any thought of putting FLynx on CVF for embarked SAR, force protection with the HMG pod, utility duties etc?