Q&A · 4:30:32-4:30:45

Why did Soviet carriers also carry cruiser-style missiles?

Aircraft capability is offered as a reason for Soviet carriers' substantial missile armament.

Aircraft Carriers Missiles Naval Aviation Soviet Navy

Watch at this time Full video guide

Question

Was there a logical reason Soviet carriers also functioned as missile cruisers?

Short answer

The explanation offered is the quality and capabilities of the aircraft fitted to them.

Notes

The quality and capabilities of the embarked aircraft are offered as the explanation for combining aviation with cruiser-style missile armament. The carrier's weapons therefore need to be considered alongside what its aircraft could do.