Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:41:22-1:41:41

Hermes before the ski-jump carrier conversion

Hermes could perform commando-carrier duties because the helicopter-assault role preceded the later ski-jump and Sea Harrier adaptation.

Commando CarriersHMS HermesLanding Platform HelicopterSea HarrierSki Jumps
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Could the Centaur-class Harrier conversion perform commando-carrier duties when needed?

Short answer

Yes; Hermes already had a commando-carrier role, and the ski-jump adaptation for Harriers came later.

Notes

Hermes could serve as a commando carrier because that was an established purpose before her Sea Harrier configuration. Her landing-platform-helicopter role did not depend on the later fixed-wing conversion. The ski-jump was added so embarked Harriers could operate more effectively rather than to create the amphibious mission. Her famous 1982 appearance was one stage in a much longer sequence of carrier roles.