An alternative to a smaller carrier is a conventional American supercarrier or an updated Forrestal-type design. Queen Elizabeth provides a comparison for ship size and automation rather than a settled final specification. Reducing crew requirements through automation is part of the design discussion. The shipyard question distinguishes facilities able to refit a large carrier from facilities equipped to construct one. Heavy cranes, workforce, and supporting infrastructure limit the available construction options.
Notable Point · 5:31:07-5:36:25
Carrier size, automation, and construction capacity
The design discussion considers a conventional supercarrier alternative, automated systems, and the difference between refit and new-build yard capacity.