Apache helicopters are judged too short-ranged for some operations at the distances envisaged for the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers. A ship operating closer inshore, like HMS Ocean, would provide a more suitable base. This supplies an argument for Army support of littoral strike ships. LHD replacements for Albion and Bulwark are also proposed because they could provide that closer aviation support.
Notable Point · 2:23:06-2:23:39
Apache range strengthens the case for closer amphibious aviation
Shorter helicopter range creates a role for aviation ships nearer the shore alongside carriers supporting more distant operations.