The publicly described sensor fit pairs the S1850M long-range radar on the forward island with the Artisan medium-range radar on the aft island. Artisan is the likely source of tactical data for defensive weapons, while electro-optical sensors and a glide-path camera support local awareness and aviation. The close-in fit includes three Phalanx systems and Browning .50-calibre machine guns that replaced the miniguns in 2023. The ships have provision for four DS30M 30 mm guns, which were not fitted. An illustrative peacetime air group combines up to 24 F-35B Lightnings with an estimated 18 Merlins, whose variants provide anti-submarine warfare, troop transport, and Crowsnest airborne early warning. Higher aircraft totals depend on the operating scenario, aircraft in the air, and deck parking, so the rough estimate is not a fixed maximum.
Notable Point · 42:17-46:46
Carrier sensors, fitted weapons, and aircraft capacity
S1850M and Artisan radars support the carrier's defences, with Phalanx and machine guns fitted, provision for four DS30M guns, and a qualified estimate of aircraft capacity.