Without cumulative treaty limits, the scenario brings forward American and British 27,000-ton carrier designs. Extra displacement allows an armoured flight deck and a full hangar without the same pressure to reduce aircraft capacity. British Illustrious-class orders could move closer to the Implacable design, with the possibility of Ark Royal's more generous hangar height as well as improved torpedo protection. Ark Royal herself is already too far along to change much. HMS Unicorn might disappear if each fleet carrier carries more aircraft, or it could evolve into a larger support ship for the new formation.
Chapter · 50:13-52:25
27,000-ton carriers with more room for protection and aircraft
Without cumulative treaty limits, American and British designers can pursue 27,000-ton carriers with armoured flight decks, larger hangars, and stronger protection.