The Izumo-class trajectory suggests that Japan may eventually want ships closer to Queen Elizabeth-class size. The forecast concerns the direction of operations, with no particular design described as chosen. A larger carrier would require an explicit strategic and political justification beyond the language used for helicopter destroyers. A Chinese aircraft carrier operating close to Japan could provide that catalyst. Future force structure would then reflect both operational learning and the regional event used to explain procurement to the public.
Notable Point · 2:29:57-2:31:17
Why Japan's next carriers could become much larger
The Izumo conversion suggests a path toward larger Japanese carriers, while regional Chinese carrier operations could supply the political case for them.