A simple readiness ladder distinguishes possession from operational capability. One carrier is largely a prestige asset, while two normally allow only one ship to be available at a time. Three improve the odds of coverage, but four are needed to support a deployed ship, an immediate relief, and vessels passing through refit, training, transit, or dry-docking. Germany's proposed two-carrier allowance would create experience and options without guaranteeing continuous carrier operations.
Notable Point · 1:13:07-1:14:11
Why two carriers do not create a continuous capability
Carrier numbers must cover deployment, relief, training, refit, and dry-docking before a navy can guarantee that a ship is available.