Strike aircraft and fighters attract most attention in carrier discussions. Long-range anti-submarine aircraft, reconnaissance aircraft and airborne early warning also account for the carrier's operational advantage. These specialist aircraft enable other parts of the air group to do their jobs. The missing equivalent of an E-2 Hawkeye in a fictional carrier force exposes how easily reconnaissance and support aviation are overlooked.
Notable Point · 36:31-37:19
Carrier support aircraft enable the strike force
Airborne early warning, reconnaissance, and long-range ASW aircraft make strike fighters more effective.