It prompts me to ask what possible use their is for a modern British naval fleet, other than a carrier force? Where and when is such a capability ever going to be required? *ducks under cover and waits for flack*
So where was the fleet on Op Telic? The reason for the excellant servicability of all CHF (and CH47) A/C from the sea side of things was down to having the carriers in attendance................. Don't bother ducking.