An illustration introduces the proposed Strike Cruiser Mark II as another American sea-control-ship idea. The concept included a runway and space for vertical-takeoff-and-landing aircraft. It also paired nuclear propulsion and the Aegis combat system with six quadruple Harpoon launchers. Cold War designers were exploring how to merge aviation, area air defense, and surface strike in one powerful hull.
Notable Point · 1:50:48-1:51:44
The nuclear Strike Cruiser Mark II concept
A U.S. sea-control concept combined nuclear propulsion, Aegis, VTOL aircraft facilities, and a heavy Harpoon battery in one cruiser-sized combatant.