Lafayette becomes a long-range strike carrier

What if USS Lafayette, the former Normandie, became a 1,100-foot, 80,000-ton carrier in 1941?

It would accelerate experience with very large flight decks and long-range air groups, but its fragile liner construction would restrict employment.

The long flight deck would provide early experience of operating a very large carrier. A specialist air group of long-range aircraft is proposed, potentially including large twin-engine types. The suggested employment resembles the planned role described here for Ark Royal: remain behind the fleet and come forward to launch strikes when required. The objection is the liner hull's vulnerability, which makes exposure to combat a major concern. Long-range strikes could make use of the large deck while limiting the ship's exposure.