A likely one-on-one carrier fight creates pressure for a larger hangar air group. Deck-edge lifts, an option considered historically, could extend usable hangar space and raise capacity toward 42-48 aircraft. Formidable might follow the modified Indomitable pattern, while the later Implacable order could grow from two ships to four. Britain still begins with a large carrier advantage, so the response accelerates and enlarges programs already under way.
Chapter · 1:13:01-1:24:48
German carriers reshape the Illustrious program
Deck-edge lifts and a larger follow-on order could give British armored carriers more aircraft without abandoning their protected-hangar concept.