Unicorn was built as a forward aviation support ship, a role distinct from a light fleet carrier. Her maintenance capabilities set her apart from a ship designed mainly to operate an embarked air group. Even so, the underlying design offered a useful starting point. Removing some maintenance capacity, concentrating on carrier operations, and adjusting the machinery led toward the wartime light fleet carrier.
Notable Point · 10:45-11:54
How HMS Unicorn pointed toward the light fleet carrier
Unicorn remained a forward aviation support ship, yet her design could be simplified into a faster carrier focused on flight operations.