Future Carrier vs. Super Carrier: New Issues and Technologies

New technologies and emerging issues such as the Joint Strike Fighter and the shift to a littoral navy threaten the future of the super carrier. Since the carrier's inception, heated arguments have been waged as to the size and capabilities of future carriers. This paper explores whether the era of the super carrier--a large aircraft carrier that is superior in size, capability and status--is coming to a close by examining the United States' need for large carriers. An examination of the development of the carrier, threats, costs, emerging technology and capabilities will show that future carriers will remain large despite affordability. The carrier has evolved to support the air wing. Aircraft have provided the major source for change to the carrier. Successful development of Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft will expand the capabilities of the air wing and require new capabilities from the carrier. Conventional Takeoff and Landing (CTOL) aircraft have perpetuated the legacy of the super carrier. Integrated air wings of STOVL and CTOL aircraft will allow interoperability between Joint forces and coalition forces. Emerging technologies such as electro mechanical aircraft launching system (EMALS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAV) will enable cost reductions in manpower and modify hull design. Measuring the total operating costs (TOC) will make estimating budgets for the new carriers more efficient and help achieve long-term goals by making it easier to remain on budget avoiding cost overruns. While other naval powers operate with smaller carriers, the U.S. is the only naval power that has the capacity and resources to operate super carriers. The capability of the carrier and its air wing are the key issues that must be addressed when discussing the next super carrier.