I wonder if a nuclear powered “lightning carrier” could serve as a nerve center for Nimitz/Ford class carrier task force anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations, significantly augmenting the fast frigate ships by allowing them temporary use of up to 2 or 3 additional helicopters and/or P-3s.
Throw in a limited but short-turn restockable anti-missile battery, and you might have a real game changer.
The big carriers are force projection. The smaller ones are really mission projection. But the smaller ones might also be imminently usable as force protection platforms, against air-breathing as well as missile threats.
I was a ground pounder (Army), but I’m an engineer, which means I like to think. Any maritime compatriots with thoughts on my suggestion? (I won’t get my feelings hurt if you strongly disagree - I’m just thinking outside the box)
There is some merit to your argument.
That’s pretty much how the USN used their Independence-class CVL’s in 1944-45. They loaded them up with Hellcats and provided the “Blue Blanket” Air CAP for the battlegroup while the CV’s provided the strike aircraft — eventually including the Corsairs which were too heavy for the CVL’s but could catch and kill Kamikazes at the distant picket line.