The class uses STOBAR, short take-off but arrested recovery, rather than catapults, and Kuznetsov's role later shifted toward visible deployments. A carrier task group can signal naval competence, layered defence, and political commitment even when its deterrent or diplomatic effect cannot be measured like a weapons-system output. Its presence may help a neutral state believe that protection is available, although that avoided decision is almost impossible to attribute or price. This creates a catch-22: successful presence hides many of its benefits, while operational failure becomes conspicuous and politically embarrassing.
Notable Point · 18:29-23:50
STOBAR operations and the diplomatic value of carriers
The move from Soviet bastion duty to Russian deployments shows how a STOBAR carrier can serve as a visible instrument of national status as well as a combat system.