I remember on the CVS in 1998 the new carrier project was often talked about. Even during the Bosnia thing from 1993-95 (those dates applicable for me anyway) it was pretty obvious the RN FAA always was trying to wag its own tail and look to its master for the funding in the future....for new carriers
At the time I suppose that was reasonable.
Perhaps something will happen in our immediate short term future to make the project look like far sightedness.
But in the light of yesterday, I cant see it. I presently cant see the point of them or the expense.