Originally posted by arburthen?:
Actually this concept of having a LST as a potential carrier is not new. During the 80's I saw a pictorial concept for a RAF carrier without use of runways or ski jumps but using mechanical cranes to lift harriers port side and launching them.
Yes you are right, think they even did real testing of it, it work , but in the end it sorts of found not really that effective.
But a LST is design for its LST role, converting it into a carrier is not a good ideal. First you are taking away something important its LST function. Next you cannot change it much, there is just 1 to 2 landing space for a harrier and a hanger only. So no matter what you do, you cannot get more then 2 harrier on board, so it will never be able to be consider a aircraft carrier.