RN Tarawa class carriers?

Started by Lawman, October 21, 2006, 01:58:26 PM

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Lawman

In the '60s, with the draw down in the fixed wing carrier fleet, but a continued desire to have carriers, the RN starts looking at other options. Following an examination of the options, including conversion of Hermes and Bulwark into Harrier carriers, it is decided that this will not be sufficient in the long run. Noting the American procurement of the Tarawa class amphibious assault ships, and seeing an opportunity to disguise a carrier purchase as replacement of commando carriers, the RN draws up suitable requirements. Using the basic design of the Tarawa, the UK sets about modifying it to suit UK needs - ski jump, larger hangar (in place of troop spaces), and a smaller crew.

Having learned from the CVA-01 procurement disaster, the RN pushes for as many carriers as possible, figuring that the government will cut the order, but not risk total cancellation. Using this logic, they are allowed to order four, officially replacing Eagle, Ark Royal, Hermes and Bulwark, with facilities for different missions. Since the ships are quite large, they can comfortably carry 35-45 aircraft, with Harriers/Sea Harriers, Marine helos, ASW helos, and various other types.

In order to support these new ships, the RN orders a large fleet of destroyers and frigates, on a common hullform, possibly a stretched version of the Canadian Iroquois class, or the Type 22 frigate. In place of the different launchers for Sea Dart and Sea Wolf, a switch to a common launcher allowed for greater commonality of design. By using a common, large, design, it gave very capable vessels, with good aviation facilities (2 x Sea King), and ~80+ missiles (short and long range), without being too expensive (16+ destroyers and 32+ frigates).  

Archibald

Another option is something on the basis of the SCS (light carrier, zumwalt hobby).
Later, the Americans can help GB to develop the P.1216 to replace the harriers...
King Arthur: Can we come up and have a look?
French Soldier: Of course not. You're English types.
King Arthur: What are you then?
French Soldier: I'm French. Why do you think I have this outrageous accent, you silly king?

Well regardless I would rather take my chance out there on the ocean, that to stay here and die on this poo-hole island spending the rest of my life talking to a gosh darn VOLLEYBALL.