Aircraft carriers are large, visible instruments of the naval presence mission, and their aircraft can extend that presence beyond the ship itself. A carrier deployment is a major signal of interest, influence, and the ability to project conventional firepower into a region. The ship therefore communicates resolve before its aircraft or weapons are used. That effect resembles an explicit reference to nuclear capability while keeping the carrier's message within the realm of conventional power.
Notable Point · 1:16:14-1:17:17
Carrier presence signals conventional power and intent
Moving a carrier battle group into a region is a visible signal of interest, influence, and the ability to project substantial conventional firepower.