The Intruder, Prowler, and S-3 Viking supplied strike, electronic-warfare, and anti-submarine capabilities at lower operating cost than the premier fighter. These less glamorous types allowed expensive fighters to concentrate on air defense and other missions for which they were optimized. Their utility made the whole carrier air wing work rather than adding optional specialties. Uncrewed aircraft offer a possible way to restore some of that lost breadth. Removing utility aircraft narrows the carrier's adaptability even when its headline fighter remains highly capable.
Chapter · 38:21-40:28
Utility aircraft make the carrier system work
The Intruder, Prowler, and Viking illustrate how less glamorous aircraft supply the capabilities that turn a carrier into a flexible fighting system.