A carrier is presented as the centre of a battle group rather than a self-contained fortress. Its aircraft provide the outer air-defence layer, long-range strike, and much of the force's wider awareness. Type 45 destroyers supply area air defence, while Type 23 and future Type 26 frigates protect against submarines. A Type 31 close escort can remain beside the carrier, using guns and jammers at short range and, if necessary, making itself the more attractive target. The division of labour turns the carrier's limited onboard armament into a question of doctrine and force structure rather than a simple measure of vulnerability.
Notable Point · 25:53-27:03
How escorts divide carrier-group defence
Aircraft, air-defence destroyers, anti-submarine frigates, and a close escort supply different protective layers around the carrier.