What would result if Japan sought British help with a Ryūjō-type commerce-protection carrier?
Short answerThe design would probably resemble Hermes, with the central decision being whether to accept a sub-10,000-ton cruiser carrier or pursue a more demanding fleet carrier.
NotesThe counterfactual points toward a version of Hermes if Britain and Japan cooperate on the Ryūjō concept. The decisive choice is the intended role. A cruiser carrier for commerce protection is considered viable below 10,000 tons. Trying to make the same small ship a fleet carrier creates the difficulty.