One proposed alternative was to enlarge more British dry docks to around 330 metres and build a carrier about 320 metres long. The extra hull length would have allowed a larger air group and a wider range of operations. Larger docks would also have served the growing dimensions of commercial shipping. Several Dubai docks were large enough to provide overseas backup, although the smaller floating dock was unsuitable. This was a proposed investment in infrastructure and aircraft capacity within the programme's political constraints.
Notable Point · 31:44-33:03
Larger dry docks and a longer carrier
A proposed investment in larger British dry docks would have supported a longer carrier and commercial shipping, with overseas docks available as backups.