I actually see these ships as having 3 likely roles - in order below:
1. Providing Air Cover and a Logistics base for Tri-Service 'peace keeping' roles
2. As humanitarian base ships for when there are natural disasters (such as the NZ Earthquake or Philippines Tsunami)
3. Large military strike bases
Since items 1 and 2 are way more likely than 3, the ships should have been equipped for these sort of operations.
Unfortunately the budget grab outlined above has meant that the scenario they are outfitted for is likely to be 3, then 1 and 2.
Lastly, everyone knows that these ships must be operated as a carrier group. None of which (tankers, supply ships, destroyer screen, aircraft etc.) appear to have been really considered..............(including the manning and costs)
Hmmm - I am beginning to worry that failure to address these aspects will make the carriers more of a hindrance than a help to the RN going forward.
Arc
(A fan of air and sea power)