Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:36:38-1:37:36

Why ski jumps improve STOVL carrier operations

For STOVL aircraft, a ski jump offers a major payload advantage over a flat-deck short takeoff without the complexity of CATOBAR equipment.

F-35BFlight Deck OperationsHarrier Jump JetNaval AviationRoyal NavySki Jump Carriers
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Question

Why does the Royal Navy favor ski ramps despite their apparent limitations?

Short answer

They let Harriers and F-35Bs launch heavier loads quickly and efficiently when catapults are unavailable.

Notes

The method is usable by multiple NATO operators equipped with compatible aircraft. Its value is conditional: a ship such as an Australian LHD gains little without aircraft and internal aviation support systems. For a Harrier or F-35B, the curved deck converts forward motion into extra lift and permits a heavier launch than a flat-deck short takeoff. It offers a rapid, mechanically simple alternative when a navy cannot afford catapults. The British preference for a full-width ramp also follows from flight-deck management and the way the Royal Navy organizes launch operations.