At the time of recording, Project Ark Royal was a study of possible conversion. Funding decisions, changes in senior naval leadership, and world events could redirect it before implementation. A prolonged period of mixed crewed and uncrewed air groups is expected. Drones could serve as loyal wingmen, tankers, or other support aircraft, or take the principal strike role while crewed fighters concentrate on air defence. Their place in the air group depends partly on whether they are treated as supporting aircraft or equivalent combat assets.
Chapter · 2:14:59-2:16:27
Project Ark Royal and a mixed carrier air group
Project Ark Royal leaves open how crewed aircraft and drones would divide carrier missions and whether drones would be supporting aircraft or equivalent combat assets.