[saganite]

It is not as though NATO countries don't have a few Carriers of their own

Out of curiosity can you name a NATO country besides Britain that operates carriers? France doesn't count.

[spikeytx86]

Spain and Italy have carriers I believe.

[Stonewall Jackson]

Spain has the 17,000-ton Asturias, which can carry 29 aircraft, and has a 27,000-ton carrier under construction, which will carry 30+ aircraft and should be completed in 2008.

Italy has the 13,000-ton Garibaldi, which can carry 18 aircraft, and is building the 26,000-ton Cavour, which can carry 20+ aircraft and should be in service in 2008.

[Levante]

"Out of curiosity can you name a NATO country besides Britain that operates carriers?"

Spain and Italy. But they are very small "Harrier Carriers."