The Joint Expeditionary Force's northern-flank mission requires a mobile force with ships available for expeditions. Britain's missing ships and capabilities give substance to criticism of its leadership, while other members also lack an obvious replacement core. Queen Elizabeth and Prince of Wales are suggested as the force's likely centre. Providing those carriers could preserve Britain's leadership even when it cannot supply enough escorts. That possible role raises a separate availability problem: two carriers offer less assurance than the four submarines maintained for the strategic deterrent.
Notable Point · 30:46-32:16
The Joint Expeditionary Force and carrier-led leadership
The northern-flank mission raises questions about leadership, escorts, and assured carrier availability.