CVA-01 missions and the carrier air-group problem

The June 1960 staff discussion defined a carrier able to attack land and sea targets while defending fleets and ground forces. Its aircraft also had to meet demanding dimensional limits for deck and hangar operation. Although the design was to embark at least 42 aircraft, only 32 were fighters and strike aircraft, and planners already judged that combat complement inadequate. A broad global mission set therefore demanded more usable aircraft than the politically and physically acceptable ship could readily sustain.