Ordering a carrier also commits a navy to its air group, escorts, and supply ships. The hull is the centre of a force designed around those supporting capabilities. If a later government cancels parts of that force, the carrier remains but loses equipment required for its intended role. Procurement must therefore consider both the desired supporting fleet and the likelihood of actually obtaining it. British plans for compatible carrier and amphibious decks illustrate how changing later purchases can undermine earlier design choices. Decisions made to address a few months of pressure can leave operational problems for years.
Chapter · 47:16-52:40
A carrier must be bought as a system of systems
The ship, air group, escorts, amphibious decks, and supply vessels must be planned together or the carrier loses the support that makes it useful.