Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 38:28-39:21

CVA-01 with P.1154 supersonic Harriers

The cancelled CVA-01 design is paired with the P.1154 to estimate both maximum and routine air-group capacity.

Carrier Air GroupsCVA-01Fleet Air ArmFleet CarriersHawker Siddeley P.1154
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Question

How many P.1154 supersonic Harriers could CVA-01 operate if built as a STOVL gas-turbine carrier?

Short answer

About 36 P.1154s plus 18 helicopters in routine service, with roughly 72 total aircraft at maximum load.

Notes

Deck parking and the carrier's side spaces could support a maximum group near 72 aircraft, including about 18 helicopters. A more realistic routine load would be around 36 P.1154s plus 18 helicopters, giving the carrier a substantial supersonic fighter force without relying on the catapult arrangement.