The preferred expanded group combines 32 Sea Harriers, 24 anti-submarine helicopters and six airborne early warning helicopters. Thirty-two fighters would not guarantee a permanently available strike force alongside the patrol, but they allow a strike group on deck and additional aircraft ready in the hangar. A 12-aircraft strike could then become practical against a major threat. Six early warning helicopters make it easier to keep one airborne and another ready while sustaining the four-fighter patrol.
Notable Point · 1:14:18-1:15:30
More aircraft allow a stronger alert force
Thirty-two fighters and six early warning helicopters give the enlarged carrier more options for simultaneous patrols and strikes.