Lexington and Saratoga gained exceptional scale from battlecruiser hulls, but their size consumed much of the United States' permitted carrier tonnage. Britain instead assembled a varied group of conversions and purpose-built ships because it needed aviation across worldwide stations. That broader portfolio included Argus, Hermes, Eagle, Furious, Courageous, Glorious, Ark Royal, and the approaching Illustrious class. Royal Navy construction consequently provides a visible record of how reconnaissance, fleet defense, strike, and support requirements changed between the wars.
Chapter · 49:31-53:41
Treaties shaped the first carrier fleets
Converted capital-ship hulls gave navies powerful early carriers, but treaty tonnage and differing global commitments produced very different fleets.