CATOBAR is often treated as the default measure of a real carrier even though relatively few navies operate it. Russia uses STOBAR, India is presented as a more complicated case, and many other fleets rely on STOVL aircraft and short or rolling recoveries. CATOBAR permits a wider range of aircraft, but its catapults and arresting gear cost more to build and run. The available aircraft market also reflects American production choices, so technical capability depends on procurement access and national resources.
Notable Point · 27:59-30:16
CATOBAR is powerful, but no longer the global default
Most carrier navies use STOBAR or STOVL arrangements; CATOBAR expands aircraft choice but brings construction, operating, and supply-chain costs.