If HMS Furious and HMS Albion traded places in a Force Z counterfactual, which Albion would matter?
Short answerThe 1950s carrier Albion could contribute aircraft; the modern LPD would add sensors and point defence but lacks the air group needed for the Force Z fight.
NotesThe answer first separates two ships with the same name. The 1950s Centaur-class carrier Albion, which could operate jets, would add far more against the Japanese aircraft that attacked Force Z. The modern Albion-class LPD has better radar, command spaces, and Phalanx, but lacks the aircraft needed to replace HMS Furious in that fight. It would be more useful in amphibious campaigns such as Torch or D-Day than as an air-power substitute in a fleet engagement.