Q&A · 3:56:35-3:57:27

The air group of an Admiral-class carrier conversion

An Eagle-style conversion might carry about ninety aircraft, but British demand for long-range twin-engine types would keep the nominal total below comparable American practice.

Question

Would an Admiral-class carrier conversion have an air group comparable to an Essex?

Short answer

It might carry about ninety aircraft, but Royal Navy interest in larger twin-engine strike and shadowing aircraft would probably keep its count somewhat lower.

Notes

The estimate is roughly ninety aircraft for an Admiral-class hull converted along Eagle lines. A simple count understates the doctrinal difference, because the Royal Navy repeatedly explored larger twin-engine strike and shadowing aircraft for greater range. Those types consume more hangar and deck space than single-engine aircraft. The resulting air group could therefore be smaller on paper while pursuing a different reconnaissance and strike problem.