How could the Admiral Kuznetsov class be made viable?
Short answerRedesign it from the beginning for a 50- to 60-year life, possibly with nuclear power, catapults, and much better maintenance access.
NotesThe redesign would begin with an intended service life of about 50 to 60 years. Nuclear propulsion, potentially using the same reactors as Kirov, is suggested as a way to simplify support and reduce fuel requirements. Some form of catapult system is also proposed. The hull would need either to fit into more shipyards or to be large enough to undertake more of its own maintenance.