SSSETOWTF,
I see your enthusiasm for VTOL, STOVL, etc, and I do not deny that it served us well. But just consider this. If we can (I know it's an IF) have the jets with more payload, fuel, range, etc, with Cats and Traps, then why would we go for the -B, just because it can be done and because it worked in the past in the abscence of a cat and trap carrier.
Please don't think I'm being clever, rude or difficult here (knowing that there are a number of threads discussing such issues), but would we have been better off in the Falklands with a squadron of Buccs and and one of F4s?
I also know the argument is very different with F35/QE. But there is a trade off with the the -B. I still think we need more reasons to go for the compromise. 600 v 450 miles? I know which I would prefer. Draw some lines fom the Gulf to some points in, say, Iran. Just as a topical example.
Just thinking out loud.