JimLad,
The carriers would not be expected to be within striking range at all times. In the same way as QRA numbers varied in line with the international situation, the carrier deployment would be modulated. Of the three scenarios we model
in the paper, only one (UK versus North Korea) requires the carrier; in the others (Middle East, Russia), the carrier increases flexibility and adds a threat axis.
This is expressly designed to be a lower cost, lower capability system than Trident, albeit one that meets the Duff-Mason minimum deterrence criteria.
It also significantly enhances RN / FAA conventional capability....
TTr