Britain's naval nuclear industry was organized around submarines, so a nuclear carrier would require a different plant. The alternatives were to license an American design or commission Rolls-Royce to develop one. Suitable yards and facilities were another constraint, and new training and support arrangements would add to procurement costs. Some countries also object to visits by nuclear-powered ships. Gas turbines already belonged to the Royal Navy's machinery and training system, which reduced the additional industrial burden of the carriers.
Notable Point · 51:28-52:46
The infrastructure cost of nuclear carrier propulsion
Nuclear propulsion would require a surface-ship reactor programme, supporting facilities and training, while restricting access to some countries.