Q&A · 5:17:21-5:18:51

What it takes for a navy to introduce aircraft carriers

A carrier programme needs escorts and sustained funding for the whole group, while competing with a country's other defence priorities.

Question

Could Germany or another navy without carriers operate one under current financial conditions?

Short answer

Germany could do so, but it would have to fund and sustain the whole carrier group, obtain escorts, and justify the investment against other defence needs.

Notes

Germany could acquire a carrier capability, but doing so would require substantial work and justification alongside the army's needs. The carrier would also need escorts and funding to sustain the complete battle group. Korea and Japan are identified as countries to watch for further carrier development. LHD-style ships offer adaptable aviation and amphibious capabilities for situations where threats are limited enough to manage with suitable supporting assets. Turkish carrier ambitions are mentioned with caution about whether a large announced programme would be carried through.