After some crude but effective early experiments with launching aircraft at sea the classic carrier form evolved and by the Second World War it was rapidly overtaking the Battleship as the primary weapons system.

Not only are the ships bigger and more capable, but the aircraft they carry are far more spohisticated, providing commanders with an incredible range of options to suit every eventuality. Carriers have changed the political map of the world with their ability to deploy to the world's hot spots, bringing with them a formidable amount of firepower.

The United States Navy has had by far the most powerful carrier fleet ever since it comitted dozens of thems to battle during World War Two. Today its nuclear powered carriers are available to project power on a global scale at very short notice and as such can be viewed as one of the most effective deterrents in maintaining world peace.

Editorial Overview
The early years of aircraft carrier development by David Hobbs

Battle of Midday
The first major carrier engagement

Worldwide carriers today

Carrier aircraft of the past 80 years and pilot's view of flying from a variety of carriers

US Navy CVNs
The most powerful warships afloat

The re-shaping of UK Naval Air Power and the future of carriers

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