Q&A · 11:31-11:56

British Phantom carrier mods and US Navy value

British Phantom takeoff and landing modifications offered less value to the US Navy, which had larger carriers and more aircraft alternatives.

Question

Why did the US Navy not adopt the British Phantom modifications that improved carrier takeoff and landing performance?

Short answer

The modifications fit British carrier constraints but did not give the US Navy enough value because it had more aircraft and larger carriers.

Notes

British Phantom modifications were worth their cost within Britain's carrier force. The US Navy had larger carriers, more aircraft, and alternative aircraft types. The improvement did not justify the additional American expense.