The Woolworths carrier metaphor describes an inexpensive, expendable flight deck for secondary and tertiary duties. Rapid entry into service mattered, yet the Royal Navy still required aviation-fuel changes, radio checks, added command-and-control space, and other alterations before operating the US-built ships. American officers initially found the delay frustrating because they needed workmanlike carriers for lower-tier tasks. British explanations of the survivability benefits later influenced American practice, and the two configurations became more alike. The hull workmanship was sound. The alterations made an austere carrier compatible with Royal Navy procedures and risk assumptions.
Chapter · 9:27-11:21
Woolworths carriers and why Britain modified them
The Woolworths metaphor meant a cheap flight deck for lower-tier jobs, but Britain still required fuel, radio, and command-and-control changes before service.