I don't think we're used to aircraft being lined up for the distant possibility of in depth protracted capability and why just the Carriers? What about other areas?
Buying the F-35B does not preclude deploying to other areas; buying the F-35A/C precludes deploying on board the carriers. During the Falklands war the capability of the RAF GR3s to deploy on board the carriers proved vital.
I am no great fan of the F-35B, but I don't consider the reduced fuel load a critical deciding factor, and it doesn't require the additional holding and diversion fuel of the other marks. The reduced internal weapons load is an issue - but will be often operate in a theatre where external weapons can't be carried and AAR is not available?