[naturalman1975]

Officially because she’s based off a Spanish Aircraft Carrier design and it was cheaper to keep the ramp than replace it.

Unofficially - it gives us more potential ways to use her in the future. If the F-35B proves a decent choice, some would like us to acquire some of those (including me - I’ve never liked the fact that the Labor government of the 1980s decommissioned our last Aircraft Carrier without replacing her), not to mention that she might also be useful as an extra deck in joint operations with the Royal Navy (flying the F-35Bs they are already going to acquire) or the USN (USMC Harriers or F-35Bs once they are in service).

[NorthMountain]

the Labor government of the 1980s decommissioned our last Aircraft Carrier without replacing her

Oh, how leftists absolutely loathe effective weapons.

At least, when Free Men wield them.

[Bulwyf]

Might want to rethink the F-35, it’s a pile of garbage.

[waynesa98]

I think a small UCAV might be a better fit. Unless the deck is really hardened that temps from the VTOL f35 will melt the decks. The C can’t be used since the boat is too small.

http://defensetech.org/2014/08/18/video-navy-drone-performs-carrier-landing-with-fa-18/

[LonePalm]

Is Harry's Cafe de Wheels still in business just outside the entrance to the Wolloomooloo Naval Base? They used to have the best pie and peas in Sydney.

"Ceterum censeo 0bama esse delendam."

Garde la Foi, mes amis! Nous nous sommes les sauveurs de la République! Maintenant et Toujours!
(Keep the Faith, my friends! We are the saviors of the Republic! Now and Forever!)
LonePalm, le Républicain du verre cassé (The Broken Glass Republican)