Why could a Harrier carrier such as Hermes not act as a commando carrier at the same time?
Short answerThe roles compete for flight-deck space and require different ship movements. Continuous helicopter support favours a predictable operating area, while strike aircraft benefit from a carrier manoeuvring into wind.
NotesCommando operations require helicopters to shuttle repeatedly between ship and shore. They need an available flight deck and a reasonably predictable place to return for logistical support. A carrier launching strike aircraft wants to manoeuvre into the wind and maintain movement for aircraft performance and tactical needs. Hermes also lacks the space to run both sets of operations freely at once. An amphibious force accepts the risks of remaining in a limited operating area because its landing operation needs that continuity. Combining the roles therefore creates conflicts in deck use, movement and support of the troops ashore. Michael Clapp could not expect to receive Hermes once she had been assigned as a flagship.