It is easy to underestimate the flexibility offered by having the STOVL or even in special situations the VTOL capability of any aircraft that can hover. This is particularly the case when operating from ships. For example carrying less internal fuel at launch in order to maximise weapon load on STO and then topping up locally before setting off. There are too many other cases to list but those who know about these things realise that conventional cat/trap ops have wind, sea state, viz and ship’s head values that can stop ops which VTOL aircraft are not so affected by providing somebody can top them up once airborne. If the QE class ever embark a couple of V-22 tankers they will be a real force improver in so many circumstances.