The Falklands task force could field Hermes and Invincible, yet still concentrated both on sea-control duties with Sea Harriers and Sea King anti-submarine helicopters. Hermes had been assigned as a commando carrier, but the combat requirement displaced much of the amphibious helicopter load that Commodore Michael Clapp expected. The example challenges the assumption that a lightly defended intervention will stay that way after other powers become involved. A carrier that must withdraw to change its air group can leave forces ashore exposed at exactly the wrong moment.
Chapter · 35:08-38:02
Falklands: when air control displaces amphibious lift
Hermes was re-roled from a commando carrier because sea-control requirements demanded Sea Harriers and anti-submarine helicopters rather than a troop-heavy air group.