Why carriers may need longer-range ASW aircraft

Should a carrier version of the P-8 exist?

The P-8 would need a very large carrier, while a smaller fixed-wing carrier ASW aircraft could provide valuable coverage if the submarine threat grows.

A carrier version of the P-8 would require an exceptionally large ship. A growing Pacific submarine threat could instead renew demand for a smaller, long-range fixed-wing anti-submarine aircraft based with the fleet. Shore-based patrol aircraft must reach the carrier or escort group before beginning their patrols. An aircraft launched from the formation starts closer to the search area. This 2020 proposal concerns mobile ASW coverage, with the choice of airframe still open.