What aircraft could solve the long-range strike problem from aircraft carriers?
Short answerAn F-35C with greater internal fuel capacity and the X-47 concept are presented as credible routes to longer-range carrier strike.
NotesAn F-35C configured with the fuel volume envisioned in some earlier design thinking could offer much greater reach. Space for additional internal fuel existed before tanks were removed to fit other programme priorities. The X-47 was another promising uncrewed long-range strike concept before a tanker-focused requirement displaced it. Both examples show that range is a design and procurement choice rather than an inevitable property of carrier aviation.