Q&A · 4:06:29-4:07:03

Replacing every Essex with a Midway-class carrier

A fleet of Midway-class carriers would improve late-war American carrier strength and damage resistance, especially against kamikaze attacks.

Aircraft Carriers Battle Damage Carrier Air Groups Carrier Damage Control Essex Class Aircraft Carriers Kamikaze Midway Class Aircraft Carriers US Navy USS Franklin World War II

Watch at this time Full video guide

Question

What if every Essex-class carrier were replaced one-for-one by a Midway-class ship?

Short answer

The expected result is a stronger late-war carrier force with greater resistance to kamikaze damage.

Notes

Replacing each Essex with a Midway is expected to strengthen American carrier operations late in the war. The assumed improvement includes greater resistance to kamikaze attacks. A Midway facing damage comparable to Franklin's could still be severely damaged, even under the favorable survival prediction.