The Falklands example illustrates why Britain cannot assume that a future naval conflict will always be fought with a coalition. Separate interests and limited carrier availability can leave a state relying on its own forces. Carriers and large amphibious ships provide the centre around which a NATO task group can form. A carrier accompanied by RFA support ships, destroyers and frigates provides capabilities around which partners can assemble. The supply ships matter to that arrangement as well as the carrier, and the same task-group logic is extended to the United States and other navies.
Notable Point · 2:35:43-2:38:26
Why carriers buy coalition leadership
Britain cannot assume an ally will always supply scarce capabilities, while carriers and large amphibious ships let it lead the coalitions that do form.