I suggest the Ark because Illustrious at present has a use as a replacement for Ocean, and the recent Illustrious refit allegedly removed much of her ability to support fixed wing aircraft
I suggest regenerating Sea Harries because the Indians already fly those (though an earlier version) so there would be more commonality than using Harriers
As for Somalia - I tend to agree, but the fact is the UN is going to try and get food in there somehow and will hit problems with the local terror groups. But even if you ignore that, having a flat deck off the Horn of Africa would be a good deterrent to the pirates. We've got the carrier sitting doing nothing, India has the manpower, we both have the aircraft. Put it all together into a jointly manned project to maintain skills
Thank you very much indeed for the prompt reply.
I had no idea Illustrious was modified to take away her fixed wing capability...
I agree about her going to replace Ocean but is that more of a 'bodge' to justify her still being in commission? (question)
I saw HMS Bulwark anchored in the bay over the week-end and is that ship a better option for taking the place of Ocean whilst she is in refit?
I understand what you are saying about the SHAR and hopefully others will contribute regarding the suggestion.
If for purely serviceability issues our harrier fleet cannot be put back into service then I guess it is game over but my thoughts are this is not the case and they have been removed for other reasons
(can't make up my mind what one I should use)