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{{Short description|Warship that serves as a seagoing airbase}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2024}}
[[File:Fleet 5 nations.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|Four modern aircraft carriers of various types—{{USS|John C. Stennis|CVN-74|6}}, [[French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle|''Charles de Gaulle'' (French Navy)]], {{USS|John F. Kennedy|CV-67|6}}, helicopter carrier {{HMS|Ocean|L12|6}}—and escort vessels, 2002]]
[[File:Aircraft Carrier Liaoning CV-16.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|[[Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning]]]]

An '''aircraft carrier''' is a [[warship]] that serves as a seagoing [[airbase]], equipped with a full-length [[flight deck]] and [[hangar]] facilities for supporting, arming, deploying and recovering [[carrier-based aircraft|shipborne aircraft]].<ref>{{Citation|title=Dictionary|publisher=Reference|contribution-url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/aircraft%20carrier|contribution=Aircraft carrier|access-date=3 October 2013|archive-date=19 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140219023059/http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/aircraft%20carrier|url-status=live}}</ref> Typically it is the [[capital ship]] of a [[naval fleet|fleet]] (known as a [[carrier battle group]]), as it allows a [[naval force]] to [[power projection|project]] seaborne [[naval aviation|air power]] far from homeland without depending on local [[airfield]]s for [[staging area|staging]] [[aerial warfare|aircraft operations]]. Since their inception in the early 20th century, aircraft carriers have evolved from wooden vessels used to deploy individual tethered [[reconnaissance balloon]]s, to [[nuclear marine propulsion|nuclear-powered]] supercarriers that carry dozens of [[fighter aircraft|fighter]]s, [[strike aircraft]], [[military helicopter]]s, [[airborne early warning and control|AEW&C]]s and other types of aircraft such as [[unmanned combat aerial vehicle|UCAV]]s. While heavier [[fixed-wing aircraft]] such as [[airlifter]]s, [[gunship]]s and [[bomber]]s have been launched from aircraft carriers, these aircraft have not landed on a carrier due to flight deck limitations.

The aircraft carrier, along with its onboard aircraft and defensive ancillary weapons, is the largest [[weapon system]] ever created. By their tactical prowess, mobility, autonomy and the variety of operational means, aircraft carriers are often the centerpiece of modern [[naval warfare]], and have significant [[gunboat diplomacy|diplomatic influence]] in [[deterrence theory|deterrence]], [[command of the sea]] and [[air supremacy]]. Since the [[Second World War]], the aircraft carrier has replaced the [[battleship]] in the role of [[flagship]] of a fleet, and largely transformed [[naval battle]]s from [[naval gun|gunfire]] to beyond-visual-range [[air strike]]s. In addition to tactical aptitudes, it has great [[military strategy|strategic]] advantages in that, by sailing in [[international waters]], it does not need to interfere with any [[territorial sovereignty]] and thus does not risk diplomatic complications or [[conflict escalation]] due to trespassing, and obviates the need for [[land use]] authorizations from third-party countries, reduces the times and transit logistics of aircraft and therefore significantly increases the time of availability on the combat zone.

[[File:World Navy Aircraft carries chart.svg|thumb|right|upright=1.35|Chart comparing a selection of aircraft carriers (sorted by length)]]
There is no single definition of an "aircraft carrier",{{citation needed|date=November 2022}} and modern navies use several variants of the type. These variants are sometimes categorized as sub-types of aircraft carriers,<ref>{{Citation|title=Encyclopaedia |encyclopedia=Encyclopædia Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/10957/aircraft-carrier|quote=Subsequent design modifications produced such variations as the light carrier, equipped with large amounts of electronic gear for the detection of submarines, and the [[helicopter carrier]], intended for conducting [[amphibious assault]].&nbsp;... Carriers with combined capabilities are classified as multipurpose carriers.|access-date=3 October 2013|archive-date=5 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005020914/https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/10957/aircraft-carrier|url-status=live}}</ref> and sometimes as distinct types of aviation-capable ships.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=400&ct=4|title=Fact File: Amphibious Assault Ships – LHA/LHD/LHA(R)|first=Dan|last=Petty|publisher=United States Navy|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090903155811/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=400&ct=4|archive-date=3 September 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> Aircraft carriers may be classified according to the type of aircraft they carry and their operational assignments. [[Admiral (Royal Navy)|Admiral]] Sir [[Mark Stanhope]], RN, former [[First Sea Lord|First Sea Lord (head)]] of the [[Royal Navy]], has said, "To put it simply, countries that aspire to strategic international influence have aircraft carriers."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18706505|title=Aircraft carriers crucial, Royal Navy chief warns|publisher=BBC News|date=4 July 2012|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925204346/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18706505|archive-date=25 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Henry Kissinger]], while [[United States Secretary of State]], also said: "An aircraft carrier is 100,000 tons of diplomacy."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/the-slow-death-of-the-carrier-air-wing-1796726088|title=The slow death of the carrier air wing|date=19 July 2017|publisher=jalopnik.com|access-date=10 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180111052647/https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/the-slow-death-of-the-carrier-air-wing-1796726088|archive-date=11 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

As of {{#time:F Y}}, there are 47 active aircraft carriers in the world operated by fourteen navies. The [[United States]] has 11 large nuclear-powered [[CATOBAR]] [[fleet carrier]]s — each carrying around 80 fighters — the largest in the world, with the total combined deck space over twice that of all other nations combined.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-carrier-gap-could-see-naval-air-power-dip-in-gulf-414440/|title=US 'carrier gap' could see naval air power dip in Gulf region|first=James|last=Drew|work=FlightGlobal|date=8 July 2015|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117014726/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-carrier-gap-could-see-naval-air-power-dip-in-gulf-414440/|archive-date=17 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition, the [[US Navy]] has nine [[amphibious assault ship]]s used primarily as [[helicopter carrier]]s, although these also each carry up to 20 [[vertical/short takeoff and landing]] (V/STOL) [[jetfighter]]s and are similar in size to medium-sized fleet carriers. [[China]], the [[United Kingdom]] and [[India]] each currently operate two [[STOBAR]]/[[STOVL]] aircraft carriers with [[ski-jump (aviation)|ski-jump]] flight decks, with China in the process to commission [[Type 003 aircraft carrier|a third carrier]] with [[aircraft catapult|catapult]] capabilities, and [[France]] and [[Russia]] each operate a single aircraft carrier with a capacity of 30 to 60 fighters. [[Italy]] operates two light V/STOL carriers and [[Spain]] operates one V/STOL aircraft-carrying assault ship. Helicopter carriers are also operated by [[Japan]] (4, two of which are being converted to operate V/STOL fighters), France (3), [[Australia]] (2, previously also owned 3 [[light aircraft carrier|light carrier]]s), [[Egypt]] (2), [[South Korea]] (2), China (3), [[Thailand]] (1) and [[Brazil]] (1). Future aircraft carriers are under construction or in planning by China, France, India, Italy, Russia, South Korea, Turkey and the United States.
{{TOClimit|3}}

==Types of carriers==
[[File:US Navy 060427-N-5961C-009 USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76),FS Charles De Gaulle (R-92),FS Cassard (D-614), guided missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69), USS McCampbell (DDG 85) conduct joint operations in the Persian Gulf.jpg|thumb|French aircraft carrier {{Ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||2}} (rear), and US Navy carrier {{USS|Ronald Reagan|CVN-76|6}} conducting joint operations in the Persian Gulf; both with the [[CATOBAR]] configuration.]]

===General features===
* Speed is a crucial attribute for aircraft carriers, as they need to be able to be deployed quickly anywhere in the world and have to be fast enough to evade detection and targeting from enemy forces. A high speed also increases the "wind over the deck", boosting the lift available for fixed-wing aircraft to carry fuel and ammunition. To evade nuclear submarines, the carriers should have a speed of more than {{convert|30|kn|mph kph}}.
* Aircraft carriers are among the largest types of warships due to their need for ample deck space.
* An aircraft carrier must be able to perform increasingly diverse mission sets. Diplomacy, power projection, quick crisis response force, land attack from the sea, sea base for helicopter and amphibious assault forces, anti-surface warfare (ASUW), defensive counter air (DCA), and [[humanitarian aid]] & [[disaster relief]] (HADR) are some of the missions the aircraft carrier is expected to accomplish. Traditionally an aircraft carrier is supposed to be one ship that can perform at least power projection and sea control missions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japcc.org/will-the-aircraft-carrier-survive/|title=Will the Aircraft Carrier Survive?|date=13 December 2018|access-date=11 September 2019|archive-date=12 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191112020122/https://www.japcc.org/will-the-aircraft-carrier-survive/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* An aircraft carrier must be able to efficiently operate an air combat group. This means it should{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} handle fixed-wing jets as well as helicopters. This includes ships designed to support operations of short-takeoff/vertical-landing (STOVL) jets.

===Basic types===
* [[Aircraft cruiser]]
* [[Amphibious assault ship]] and sub-types
* [[Anti-submarine warfare carrier]]
* [[Balloon carrier]] and balloon tenders
* [[Escort carrier]]
* [[Fleet carrier]]
* [[Flight deck cruiser]]
* [[Helicopter carrier]]
* [[Light aircraft carrier]]
* [[Seaplane tender]] and seaplane carriers
* Utility carrier: This type was mainly used in the US Navy, in the decade after World War 2 to ferry aircraft.<ref>[https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/nhhc/our-collections/photography/us-navy-ships/alphabetical-listing/g/uss-guadalcanal--avg-60-acv-60-cve-60-cvu-60-0.html USS Guadalcanal (AVG-60/ACV-60/CVE-60/CVU-60)], official page at official website https://www.history.navy.mil/</ref>

Some of the types listed here are not strictly defined as aircraft carriers by some sources.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}}

===By role===
[[File:USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 30 January 2019 (190130-N-PW716-1312).JPG|thumb|{{USS|Abraham Lincoln|CVN-72}} a [[United States Navy]] fleet carrier, also often referred to as a supercarrier, seen here underway in 2019 crossing the Atlantic.]]

A [[fleet carrier]] is intended to operate with the main fleet and usually provides an offensive capability. These are the largest carriers capable of fast speeds. By comparison, [[escort carrier]]s were developed to provide defense for convoys of ships. They were smaller and slower with lower numbers of aircraft carried. Most were built from mercantile hulls or, in the case of [[merchant aircraft carrier]]s, were bulk cargo ships with a flight deck added on top. [[Light aircraft carrier]]s were fast enough to operate with the main fleet but of smaller size with reduced aircraft capacity.

The Soviet aircraft carrier ''[[Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov|Admiral Kusnetsov]]'' was termed a "heavy aircraft-carrying cruiser". This was primarily a legal construct to avoid the limitations of the [[Montreux Convention Regarding the Regime of the Straits#Aircraft carriers|Montreux Convention]] preventing 'aircraft carriers' transiting the [[Turkish Straits]] between the Soviet [[Black Sea]] bases and the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. These ships, while sized in the range of large fleet carriers, were designed to deploy alone or with escorts. In addition to supporting fighter aircraft and helicopters, they provide both strong defensive weaponry and heavy offensive missiles equivalent to a guided-missile cruiser.

===By configuration===
[[File:HMS Queen Elizabeth in Gibraltar - 2018 (28386226189).jpg|thumb|Aircraft Carriers in the [[STOVL]] configuration are in service with Italy, Spain, Thailand and the United Kingdom.]]

Aircraft carriers today are usually divided into the following four categories based on the way that aircraft take off and land:
*[[CATOBAR|Catapult-assisted take-off barrier-arrested recovery]] (CATOBAR): these carriers generally carry the largest, heaviest, and most heavily armed aircraft, although smaller CATOBAR carriers may have other limitations (weight capacity of aircraft elevator, etc.). All CATOBAR carriers in service today are nuclear-powered, as the last conventionally powered CATOBAR carrier USS ''[[USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63)|Kitty Hawk]]'' was decommissioned in 2009. Twelve are in service: ten ''Nimitz'' and one {{sclass|Gerald R. Ford|aircraft carrier|0}} fleet carriers in the United States; and the [[French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle|Charles de Gaulle]] in France.
* [[STOBAR|Short take-off barrier-arrested recovery]] (STOBAR): these carriers are generally limited to carrying lighter fixed-wing aircraft with more limited payloads. STOBAR carrier air wings, such as the [[Sukhoi Su-33]] and future [[Mikoyan MiG-29K]] wings of {{Ship|Russian aircraft carrier|Admiral Kuznetsov||2}} are often geared primarily towards air superiority and fleet defense roles rather than strike/power projection tasks,{{citation needed|date=November 2013}} which require heavier payloads (bombs and air-to-ground missiles). Five are in service: two in China, two in India, and one in Russia.
* [[STOVL|Short take-off vertical-landing]] (STOVL): limited to carrying STOVL aircraft. STOVL aircraft, such as the [[Harrier jump jet|Harrier]] family and [[Yakovlev Yak-38]] generally have limited payloads, lower performance, and high fuel consumption when compared with conventional fixed-wing aircraft; however, a new generation of STOVL aircraft, currently consisting of the [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II]], has much improved performance. Fourteen are in service; nine STOVL amphibious assault ships in the US; two carriers each in Italy and the UK; and one STOVL amphibious assault ship in Spain.
* [[Helicopter carrier]]: Helicopter carriers have a similar appearance to other aircraft carriers but operate only helicopters – those that mainly operate helicopters but can also operate fixed-wing aircraft are known as STOVL carriers (see above). Seventeen are in service: four in Japan; three in France; two each in Australia, China, Egypt and South Korea; and one each in Brazil and Thailand. In the past, some conventional carriers were converted and these were called "commando carriers" by the Royal Navy. Some helicopter carriers, but not all, are classified as [[amphibious assault ships]], tasked with landing and supporting ground forces on enemy territory.

===By size===
* [[Fleet carrier]]
* [[Light aircraft carrier]]
* [[Escort carrier]]

===Supercarrier===
{{Redirect|Supercarrier|the television series|Supercarrier&nbsp;(TV series){{!}}''Supercarrier''&nbsp;(TV series)}}
[[File:HMS Ark Royal h85716.jpg|thumb|right|The Royal Navy's [[HMS Ark Royal (91)|HMS ''Ark Royal'']] in 1939, with [[Fairey Swordfish|Swordfish]] biplane bombers passing overhead. The British aircraft carrier was involved in the crippling of the German battleship [[German battleship Bismarck|''Bismarck'']] in May 1941]]

The appellation "supercarrier" is not an official designation with any national navy, but a term used predominantly by the media and typically when reporting on larger and more advanced carrier types. It is also used when comparing carriers of various sizes and capabilities, both current and past. It was first used by ''[[The New York Times]]'' in 1938,<ref>{{cite news|title=Reich's Cruise Ships Held Potential Plane Carriers|work=The New York Times|date=1 May 1938|page=32|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1938/05/01/archives/reichs-cruise-ships-held-potential-plane-carriers.html|access-date=17 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224173246/https://www.nytimes.com/1938/05/01/archives/reichs-cruise-ships-held-potential-plane-carriers.html|archive-date=24 February 2018|url-status=live}}{{subscription required}}</ref> in an article about the Royal Navy's {{HMS |Ark Royal |91 |6}}, that had a length of {{convert|800|ft|m|sigfig=3|sp=us}}, a displacement of 22,000 [[tonne|ton]]s and was designed to carry 72 aircraft.<ref>{{cite news|title=The Ark Royal Launched. Most Up-To-Date Carrier. Aircraft in the Fleet|work=[[The Times]]|date=14 April 1937|page=11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Rossiter|first=Mike|title=Ark Royal: the life, death and rediscovery of the legendary Second World War aircraft carrier|orig-year=2006|edition=2nd|year=2007|publisher=Corgi Books|location=London|isbn=978-0-552-15369-0|oclc=81453068|pages=48–51}}</ref> Since then, aircraft carriers have consistently grown in size, both in length and displacement, as well as improved capabilities; in defense, sensors, electronic warfare, propulsion, range, launch and recovery systems, number and types of aircraft carried and number of sorties flown per day.<ref>FIREPOWER: THE WEAPONS THE PROFESSIONALS USE – AND HOW. SUPERCARRIERS, #25 Orbis Publishing 1990</ref>

Both China ([[Type 003 aircraft carrier|Type 003]]), and the United Kingdom ([[Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier|Queen Elizabeth class]]) have carriers undergoing trials or in service with full load displacements between 80,000<ref>{{Cite book |last=Pape |first=Alex|title=Jane's Fighting Ships 2023-2024|date=April 2023 |publisher=Jane's Information Group Limited |isbn=9780710634283 |location=United Kingdom |pages=886 |language=en}}</ref> to 85,000 tonnes<ref name="China">{{cite web|date=5 January 2018|title=China kicks off construction of new supercarrier/|url=https://thediplomat.com/2018/01/china-kicks-off-construction-of-new-supercarrier/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180116221608/https://thediplomat.com/2018/01/china-kicks-off-construction-of-new-supercarrier/|archive-date=16 January 2018|access-date=1 February 2018|publisher=thediplomat.com}}</ref> and lengths from {{convert|280 to 320 |m |sp=us}}<ref>{{cite web|title=Queen Elizabeth Class|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Future-Ships/Queen-Elizabeth-Class|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130810221625/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/The-Fleet/Ships/Future-Ships/Queen-Elizabeth-Class|archive-date=10 August 2013|access-date=21 August 2013|publisher=Royal Navy}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=19 February 2015|title=China has solid plans for four aircraft carriers by 2030, could eventually have 10|url=https://www.nextbigfuture.com/2015/02/china-has-solid-plans-for-four-aircraft.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730231911/https://www.nextbigfuture.com/2015/02/china-has-solid-plans-for-four-aircraft.html|archive-date=30 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|publisher=nextbigfuture.com}}</ref> which are described as "supercarriers".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/british-supercarrier-hms-queen-elizabeth-deploy-pacific/|title=British super carrier HMS ''Queen Elizabeth'' to deploy to the Pacific|publisher=ukdefencejournal.org.uk|date=28 June 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202071701/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/british-supercarrier-hms-queen-elizabeth-deploy-pacific/|archive-date=2 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://tass.com/defense/953674|title=Russian Navy may get advanced new aircraft carrier|agency=TASS|date=28 June 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180210195246/http://tass.com/defense/953674|archive-date=10 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name= China /> France is also developing a new aircraft carrier ([[Future French aircraft carrier|PANG]]) which is to have a full load displacement of c. 75,000 tonnes and also be considered a supercarrier. The largest supercarriers in service as of 2024, however, are with the US Navy,<ref name= USA>{{cite web|url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/ships/detail.asp?ship_id=USS-Gerald-Ford-CVN78|title=USS ''Gerald R. Ford'' (CVN-78)|publisher=militaryfactory.com|date=22 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224053014/https://www.militaryfactory.com/ships/detail.asp?ship_id=USS-Gerald-Ford-CVN78|archive-date=24 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> with full load displacements in excess 100,000 tons,<ref name= USA /> lengths of over {{convert|337|m|sp=us}},<ref name= USA /> and capabilities that exceed those of any other class.{{refn|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/uss-gerald-r-ford-trials-commissioned-later-2017-2|title=The world's most advanced aircraft carrier is one step closer to completion|work=Business Insider|date=16 February 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224112859/http://www.businessinsider.com/uss-gerald-r-ford-trials-commissioned-later-2017-2|archive-date=24 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/2017/07/18/politics/uss-gerald-ford-commissioning-sneak-peek/index.html|title=Sneak peek at US Navy's $13B aircraft carrier|publisher=CNN|date=18 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220094724/https://www.cnn.com/2017/07/18/politics/uss-gerald-ford-commissioning-sneak-peek/index.html|archive-date=20 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.foxnews.com/tech/uss-gerald-r-ford-inside-the-worlds-most-advanced-aircraft-carrier/|title=USS ''Gerald R. Ford'': Inside the world's most advanced aircraft carrier|publisher=Fox News|date=21 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202113556/http://www.foxnews.com/tech/2017/07/21/uss-gerald-r-ford-inside-worlds-most-advanced-aircraft-carrier.html|archive-date=2 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://navylive.dodlive.mil/2017/07/21/uss-gerald-r-ford-ushers-in-new-age-of-technology-and-innovation/|title=USS ''Gerald R. Ford'' ushers in new age of technology and innovation|publisher=navylive.dodlive.mil|date=21 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180210220549/http://navylive.dodlive.mil/2017/07/21/uss-gerald-r-ford-ushers-in-new-age-of-technology-and-innovation/|archive-date=10 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.marketwatch.com/story/the-us-navys-new-13-billion-aircraft-carrier-will-dominate-the-seas-2016-03-09|title=The US Navy's new $13 billion aircraft carrier will dominate the seas|publisher=marketwatch.com|date=9 March 2016|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180212005032/https://www.marketwatch.com/story/the-us-navys-new-13-billion-aircraft-carrier-will-dominate-the-seas-2016-03-09|archive-date=12 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>}}

===Hull type identification symbols===
Several systems of identification symbol for aircraft carriers and related types of ship have been used. These include the [[pennant number]]s used by the Royal Navy, [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] countries, and Europe, along with the [[hull classification symbol]]s used by the US and [[Hull classification symbol (Canada)|Canada]].<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.navy.gov.au/media-room/publications/semaphore-september-2010-0|magazine=Semaphore|title=AWD, Hobart, MFU or DDGH – What's in a Name?|publisher=Royal Australian Navy|date=30 July 2010|access-date=19 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131226085836/http://www.navy.gov.au/media-room/publications/semaphore-september-2010-0|archive-date=26 December 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ US hull classification symbols for aircraft carriers and related ship types{{citation needed|date=January 2022}}
! Symbol !! Designation
|-
| CV || Generic aircraft carrier
|-
| CVA || Attack carrier (up to 1975)
|-
| CVB || Large aircraft carrier (retired 1952)
|-
| CVAN || Nuclear-powered attack carrier
|-
| CVE || [[Escort carrier]]
|-
| CVHA || Aircraft carrier, Helicopter Assault (retired)
|-
| CVHE || Aircraft carrier, Helicopter, Escort (retired)
|-
| CVV || [[Aircraft Carrier (Medium)]] (proposed)
|-
| CVL || [[Light aircraft carrier]]
|-
| CVN || Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
|-
| CVS || [[Anti-submarine warfare carrier]]
|-
| CVT || Training Aircraft Carrier
|-
|CVU|| Utility carrier (retired)
|-
| LHA || [[Landing helicopter assault]], a type of [[amphibious assault ship]]
|-
| LHD || [[Landing helicopter dock]], a type of amphibious assault ship
|-
| LPH || [[Landing platform helicopter]], a type of amphibious assault ship
|}

==History==
{{main|History of the aircraft carrier|Timeline for aircraft carrier service}}

===Origins===
[[File:Wakamiya.jpg|thumb|right|The {{ship|Japanese seaplane carrier|Wakamiya||2|up=yes}} conducted the world's first naval-launched air raids in 1914.]]

The 1903 advent of the heavier-than-air fixed-wing airplane with the [[Wright brothers]]' first flight at [[Kitty Hawk, North Carolina]], was closely followed on 14 November 1910, by [[Eugene Burton Ely]]'s first experimental take-off of a [[Curtiss Pusher]] airplane from the deck of a [[United States Navy]] ship, the cruiser {{USS|Birmingham|CL-2|6}} anchored off [[Norfolk Navy Base]] in [[Virginia]]. Two months later, on 18 January 1911, Ely landed his Curtiss Pusher airplane on a platform on the armored cruiser {{USS|Pennsylvania|ACR-4|6}} anchored in [[San Francisco Bay]]. On 9 May 1912, the first take off of an airplane from a ship while underway was made by Commander [[Charles Rumney Samson|Charles Samson]] flying a [[Short S.27|Short Improved S.27]] biplane "S.38" of the [[Royal Naval Air Service]] (RNAS) from the deck of the Royal Navy's pre-dreadnought battleship {{HMS|Hibernia|1905|6}}, thus providing the first practical demonstration of the aircraft carrier for naval operations at sea.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1912/1912%20-%200442.html|title=The Naval Review and the Aviators|issue=177|volume=IV|page=442|magazine=[[Flight International|Flight]]|date=18 May 1912|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117015037/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1912/1912%20-%200442.html|archive-date=17 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=10 May 1912|title=Flight From the Hibernia|newspaper=The Times|issue=39895|page=8 (3)|location=London}}</ref> [[Seaplane tender]] support ships came next, with the French {{Ship|French seaplane carrier|Foudre||2}} of 1911.

Early in [[World War I]], the [[Imperial Japanese Navy]] ship {{Ship|Japanese seaplane carrier|Wakamiya||2}} conducted the world's first successful ship-launched air raid:{{sfn|Polak|2005|p=92}} on 6 September 1914, a [[Farman Aviation Works|Farman]] aircraft launched by ''Wakamiya'' attacked the [[Austro-Hungarian Navy|Austro-Hungarian]] cruiser {{SMS|Kaiserin Elisabeth}} and the [[Imperial German Navy|Imperial German]] gunboat ''Jaguar'' in [[Jiaozhou Bay]] off [[Qingdao]]; neither was hit.<ref>{{cite book|last=Donko|first=Wilhelm M.|title=Österreichs Kriegsmarine in Fernost: Alle Fahrten von Schiffen der k.(u.)k. Kriegsmarine nach Ostasien, Australien und Ozeanien von 1820 bis 1914|publisher=Berlin Epubli|year=2013|pages=4, 156–162, 427}}</ref> The first attack using an air-launched [[torpedo]] occurred on 2 August, when a torpedo was fired by Flight Commander [[Charles Edmonds]] from a [[Short Type 184]] seaplane, launched from the seaplane carrier {{HMS|Ben-my-Chree||6}}.{{sfn|Sturtivant|1990|p=215}}<ref name="269hist">269 Squadron History: 1914–1923</ref>

The first carrier-launched airstrike was the [[Tondern raid]] in July 1918. Seven [[Sopwith Camels]] were launched from the battlecruiser {{HMS|Furious|47|6}} which had been completed as a carrier by replacing her planned forward turret with a flight deck and hangar prior to commissioning. The Camels attacked and damaged the German airbase at Tondern, Germany (modern day [[Tønder]], Denmark), and destroyed two [[Zeppelin|zeppelin airships]].<ref>Probert, p. 46.{{cnf|date=November 2024}}</ref>

The first landing of an airplane on a moving ship was by Squadron Commander [[Edwin Harris Dunning]], when he landed his [[Sopwith Pup]] on HMS ''Furious'' in [[Scapa Flow]], Orkney on 2 August 1917. Landing on the forward flight deck required the pilot to approach round the ship's superstructure, a difficult and dangerous manoeuver and Dunning was later killed when his airplane was thrown overboard while attempting another landing on ''Furious''.<ref>The First World War: A Complete History by Sir [[Martin Gilbert]] [https://books.google.com/books?id=Ob2k5aM15cEC&pg=RA2-PA355] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905151348/https://books.google.com/books?id=Ob2k5aM15cEC&pg=RA2-PA355|date=5 September 2021}}</ref> HMS ''Furious'' was modified again when her rear turret was removed and another flight deck added over a second hangar for landing aircraft over the stern.<ref>Parkes, p. 622.{{cnf|date=November 2024}}</ref> Her funnel and superstructure remained intact however and [[turbulence]] from the funnel and superstructure was severe enough that only three landing attempts were successful before further attempts were forbidden.<ref>Parkes, p. 624.{{cnf|date=November 2024}}</ref> This experience prompted the development of vessels with a flush deck and produced the first large fleet ships. In 1918, {{HMS|Argus|I49|6}} became the world's first carrier capable of launching and recovering naval aircraft.{{sfn|Till|1996|p=191}}

As a result of the [[Washington Naval Treaty]] of 1922, which limited the construction of new heavy surface combat ships, most early aircraft carriers were conversions of ships that were laid down (or had served) as different ship types: cargo ships, cruisers, battlecruisers, or battleships. These conversions gave rise to the {{USS|Langley|CV-1|6}} in 1922, the US {{sclass|Lexington|aircraft carrier|2}}s (1927), Japanese {{Ship|Japanese aircraft carrier|Akagi||2}} and {{Ship|Japanese aircraft carrier|Kaga||2}}, and British {{sclass|Courageous|aircraft carrier|4}} (of which ''Furious'' was one). Specialist carrier evolution was well underway, with several navies ordering and building warships that were purposefully designed to function as aircraft carriers by the mid-1920s. This resulted in the commissioning of ships such as the Japanese {{Ship|Japanese aircraft carrier|Hōshō||2}} (1922),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2017/06/13/world/gallery/japanese-inventions-changed-how-we-live/index.html|title=Japanese inventions that changed the world|publisher=CNN|date=13 June 2017|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171103173202/http://edition.cnn.com/2017/06/13/world/gallery/japanese-inventions-changed-how-we-live/index.html|archive-date=3 November 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> {{HMS|Hermes|95|6}} (1924, although laid down in 1918 before ''Hōshō''), and {{Ship|French aircraft carrier|Béarn||2}} (1927). During [[World War II]], these ships would become known as [[fleet carrier]]s.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}

===World War II===
{{See also|List of aircraft carriers of World War II}}
[[File:USS Enterprise (CV-6) in Puget Sound, September 1945.jpg|thumb|{{USS|Enterprise|CV-6|6}}, the [[Most decorated US ships of World War II|most decorated US warship of World War II]]]]
[[File:Japanese aircraft carrier Shinano.jpg|thumb|The Japanese carrier [[Japanese aircraft carrier Shinano|''Shinano'']] was built on a battleship hull to carry spare aircraft and ordnance in support of other carriers. En route to complete fitting out it was sunk by an American submarine.<ref>Enright & Ryan, p. xiv.{{cnf|date=November 2024}}</ref>]]

The aircraft carrier dramatically changed [[naval warfare]] in World War II, because air power was becoming a significant factor in warfare. The advent of aircraft as focal weapons was driven by the superior range, flexibility, and effectiveness of carrier-launched aircraft. They had greater range and precision than naval guns, making them highly effective. The versatility of the carrier was demonstrated in November 1940, when {{HMS|Illustrious|87|6}} launched a long-range [[Battle of Taranto|strike on the Italian fleet]] at their base in [[Taranto]], signalling the beginning of the effective and highly mobile aircraft strikes. This operation in the shallow water harbor incapacitated three of the six anchored battleships at a cost of two torpedo bombers.

[[Asiatic-Pacific Theater|World War II in the Pacific Ocean]] involved clashes between aircraft carrier fleets. The Japanese surprise attack on the American Pacific fleet at [[Naval Station Pearl Harbor|Pearl Harbor]] naval and air bases on Sunday, 7 December 1941, was a clear illustration of the power projection capability afforded by a large force of modern carriers. Concentrating six carriers in a single unit turned naval history about, as no other nation had fielded anything comparable. In the "[[Doolittle Raid]]", on 18 April 1942, the US Navy carrier {{USS|Hornet|CV-8|6}} sailed to within {{convert|650|nmi|km}} of Japan and launched 16 [[North American B-25 Mitchell|B-25 Mitchell]] medium bombers from her deck in a demonstrative retaliatory strike on the mainland, including the capital, Tokyo. However, the vulnerability of carriers compared to traditional capital ships was illustrated by the sinking of {{HMS|Glorious}} by German battleships during the [[Norwegian Campaign|Norwegian campaign in 1940]].

This new-found importance of [[naval aviation]] forced nations to create a number of carriers, in efforts to provide air superiority cover for every major fleet to ward off enemy aircraft. This extensive usage led to the development and construction of 'light' carriers. [[Escort aircraft carrier]]s, such as {{USS|Bogue|CVE-9|6}}, were sometimes purpose-built but most were converted from merchant ships as a stop-gap measure to provide anti-submarine air support for convoys and amphibious invasions. Following this concept, [[light aircraft carrier]]s built by the US, such as {{USS|Independence|CVL-22|6}} (commissioned in 1943), represented a larger, more "militarized" version of the escort carrier. Although with similar complement to escort carriers, they had the advantage of speed from their converted cruiser hulls. The UK [[1942 Design Light Fleet Carrier]] was designed for building quickly by civilian shipyards and with an expected service life of about 3 years.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Robbins|first=Guy|title=The Aircraft Carrier Story: 1908–1945|year=2001|location=London|publisher=Cassel|page=[https://archive.org/details/aircraftcarriers0000robb/page/91 91]|isbn=978-0-30435-308-8|url=https://archive.org/details/aircraftcarriers0000robb/page/91}}</ref> They served the Royal Navy during the war, and the hull design was chosen for nearly all aircraft carrier equipped navies after the war, until the 1980s. Emergencies also spurred the creation or conversion of highly unconventional aircraft carriers. [[CAM ship]]s were cargo-carrying merchant ships that could launch (but not retrieve) a single fighter aircraft from a catapult to defend the convoy from long range land-based German aircraft.

===Postwar era===
[[File:Arromanches (R95) with Hellcat landing c1953.jpg|alt=|thumb|An [[Grumman F6F Hellcat|F6F-5]] landing on the French ''[[French aircraft carrier Arromanches (R95)|Arromanches]]'' in the [[Tonkin Gulf]], 1953.]]
[[File:USS Tripoli LPH10 a.jpg|thumb|USS ''Tripoli'', a [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]] ''Iwo Jima''-class helicopter carrier]]
[[File:USS Enterprise (CVN-65) underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 14 June 2004 (040614-N-0119G-020).jpg|thumb|{{USS|Enterprise|CVN-65}}, the world's first nuclear-powered carrier, commissioned in 1961]]

Before World War II, international naval treaties of [[Washington Naval Treaty|1922]], [[London Naval Treaty|1930]], and [[Second London Naval Treaty|1936]] limited the size of capital ships including carriers. Since World War II, aircraft carrier designs have increased in size to accommodate a steady increase in aircraft size. The large, modern {{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|4}} of US Navy carriers has a displacement nearly four times that of the World War II–era {{USS|Enterprise|CV-6|6}}, yet its complement of aircraft is roughly the same—a consequence of the steadily increasing size and weight of individual military aircraft over the years. Today's aircraft carriers are so expensive that some nations which operate them risk significant economic and military impact if a carrier is lost.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japcc.org/will-the-aircraft-carrier-survive/|title=Will the Aircraft Carrier Survive?; Future Air Threats to the Carrier (and How to Defend It)|last=Cochran|first=Daniel|year=2018|publisher=Joint Air Power Competence Centre (japcc.org)|access-date=7 June 2020|archive-date=25 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725013658/https://www.japcc.org/will-the-aircraft-carrier-survive/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:USS Forrestal explosion 29 July 1967.jpg|thumb|Fighting the fire on board [[1967 USS Forrestal fire|USS ''Forrestal'']], 1967.]]
Some changes were made after 1945 in carriers:
* The '''angled flight deck''' was invented by [[Royal Navy]] Captain (later Rear Admiral) [[Dennis Cambell]], as naval aviation jets' higher speeds required carriers be modified to fit their needs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.denniscambell.org.uk/4663/4690.html|title=The Angled Deck Story|work=denniscambell.org.uk|year=2012|access-date=9 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304070012/http://www.denniscambell.org.uk/4663/4690.html|archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fleetairarmoa.org/fleet-air-arm-oa-history|title=History of Fleet Air Arm Officers Association|work=FAAOA.org|year=2015|access-date=9 November 2015|archive-date=25 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225040019/https://www.fleetairarmoa.org/fleet-air-arm-oa-history|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|title=Innovation in Carrier Aviation|author2-link=Norman Friedman|first1=Thomas C.|last1=Hone|first2=Norman|last2=Friedman|first3=Mark D.|last3=Mandeles|journal=Newport Paper 37|publisher=Naval War College Press|year=2011}}; abridged findings published as {{cite journal|title=The Development of the Angled-Deck Aircraft Carrier|journal=Naval War College Review |date=Spring 2011|volume=64|number=2|pages=63–78}}</ref> Additionally, the angled flight deck allows for simultaneous launch and recovery.
* [[Jet blast deflector]]s became necessary to protect aircraft and handlers from [[jet blast]]. The first US Navy carriers to be fitted with them were the wooden-decked {{sclass|Essex|aircraft carrier|1}}s which were adapted to operate jets in the late 1940s. Later versions had to be water-cooled because of increasing engine power.{{sfn|Hobbs|2009|loc=Chapter 14}}
* [[Optical landing system]]s were developed to facilitate the very precise landing angles required by jet aircraft, which have a faster landing speed giving the pilot little time to correct misalignments, or mistakes. The first system was fitted to {{HMS|Illustrious|87|6}} in 1952.{{sfn|Hobbs|2009|loc=Chapter 14}}
* Aircraft carrier designs have increased in size to accommodate continuous increase in aircraft size. The 1950s saw US Navy's commission of "supercarriers", designed to operate naval jets, which offered better performance at the expense of bigger size and demanded more ordnance to be carried on-board (fuel, spare parts, electronics, etc.).
* The combination of increased carrier size, speed requirements above {{convert|30|kn|mph kph}}, and a requirement to operate at sea for long periods mean that modern large aircraft carriers often use nuclear reactors to create power for propulsion, electricity, catapulting airplanes from aircraft carriers, and a few more minor uses.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/non-power-nuclear-applications/transport/nuclear-powered-ships.aspx|title=Nuclear-Powered Ships &#124; Nuclear Submarines|website=world-nuclear.org|access-date=11 September 2019|archive-date=25 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190925073832/https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/non-power-nuclear-applications/transport/nuclear-powered-ships.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>

Modern navies that operate such aircraft carriers treat them as [[capital ship]]s of fleets, a role previously held by the galleons, ships-of-the-line and [[battleship]]s. This change took place during World War II in response to air power becoming a significant factor in warfare, driven by the superior range, flexibility and effectiveness of carrier-launched aircraft. Following the war, carrier operations continued to increase in size and importance, and along with, carrier designs also increased in size and ability. Some of these larger carriers, dubbed by the media as "supercarriers", displacing 75,000&nbsp;tons or greater, have become the pinnacle of carrier development. Some are powered by [[nuclear reactor]]s and form the core of a fleet designed to operate far from home. Amphibious assault ships, such as the {{sclass|Wasp|amphibious assault ship|5}} and {{sclass|Mistral| amphibious assault ship|5}} classes, serve the purpose of carrying and landing Marines, and operate a large contingent of helicopters for that purpose. Also known as "commando carriers"<ref>A number of British conversions of light fleet carriers to helicopter operations were known as commando carriers, though they did not operate landing craft</ref> or "helicopter carriers", many have the capability to operate [[VSTOL]] aircraft.

The threatening role of aircraft carriers has a place in modern [[asymmetric warfare]], like the [[gunboat diplomacy]] of the past.{{citation needed|date=November 2022}} Carriers also facilitate quick and precise projections of overwhelming military power into such local and regional conflicts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.navytimes.com/article/20110508/NEWS/105080307/Navies-expanding-use-of-aircraft-carriers|title=Navies expanding use of aircraft carriers|first=Slobodan|last=Lekic|work=Navy Times|date=8 May 2011|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20151117114109/http://archive.navytimes.com/article/20110508/NEWS/105080307/Navies-expanding-use-of-aircraft-carriers|archive-date=17 November 2015}}</ref>

Lacking the firepower of other warships, carriers by themselves are considered vulnerable to attack by other ships, aircraft, submarines, or missiles. Therefore, an aircraft carrier is generally accompanied by a number of other ships to provide protection for the relatively unwieldy carrier, to carry supplies, re-supply (Many carriers are self-sufficient and will supply their escorts) and perform other support services, and to provide additional offensive capabilities. The resulting group of ships is often termed a [[carrier strike group]], battle group, carrier group, or [[carrier battle group]].

There is a view among some military pundits {{who|date=December 2020}} that modern anti-ship weapons systems, such as torpedoes and missiles, or even ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads have made aircraft carriers and carrier groups too vulnerable for modern combat.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2011-05/twilight-uperfluous-carrier|first1=Henry J.|last1=Hendrix|first2=J. Noel|last2=Williams|title=Twilight of the $UPERfluous Carrier|magazine=[[Proceedings (magazine)|Proceedings]]|date=May 2011|volume=137|publisher=U.S. Naval Institute|access-date=15 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117065242/http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2011-05/twilight-uperfluous-carrier|archive-date=17 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{synthesis span|text=Carriers can also be vulnerable to [[diesel-electric submarine]]s|date=January 2021}} like the German ''U24'' of the conventional [[Type 206 submarine|206 class]] which in 2001 "fired" at the [[USS Enterprise (CVN-65)|''Enterprise'']] during the exercise ''JTFEX 01-2'' in the [[Caribbean Sea]] by firing [[flare]]s and taking a photograph through its [[periscope]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.t-online.de/nachrichten/militaer-special/id_61572852/militaer-deutsches-u-boot-fordert-us-marine-heraus-.html|publisher=t-online|title=Deutsches U-Boot fordert US-Marine heraus|date=6 January 2013|access-date=18 December 2020|language=de|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101174945/https://www.t-online.de/nachrichten/militaer-special/id_61572852/militaer-deutsches-u-boot-fordert-us-marine-heraus-.html|url-status=live}}</ref> or the Swedish [[HSwMS Gotland (Gtd)|Gotland]] which managed the same feat in 2006 during ''JTFEX 06-2'' by penetrating the defensive measures of [[Carrier Strike Group 7]] which was protecting {{USS|Ronald Reagan}}.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.knbc.com/news/10116514/detail.html?psp=news |publisher=KNBC|title=Pentagon: New Class of Silent Submarines Poses Threat|date=19 October 2006|access-date=21 July 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071116120858/http://www.knbc.com/news/10116514/detail.html|archive-date=16 November 2007}}</ref>

==Description==
===Structure===
Carriers are large and long ships, although there is a high degree of variation depending on their intended role and [[air wing|aircraft complement]]. The size of the carrier has varied over history and among [[navy|navies]], to cater to the various roles that global climates have demanded from [[naval aviation]].

Regardless of size, the ship itself must house their complement of aircraft, with space for launching, storing, and maintaining them. Space is also required for the large crew, supplies (food, munitions, fuel, engineering parts), and propulsion. US aircraft carriers are notable for having [[nuclear reactor]]s powering their systems and propulsion.

[[File:DeHavilland Vampire HMS Ocean Dec1945 NAN1 47.jpg|thumb|The first carrier landing and take-off of a jet aircraft: [[Eric "Winkle" Brown]] landing on {{HMS|Ocean|R68|6}} in 1945.]]
The top of the carrier is the flight deck, where aircraft are launched and recovered. On the starboard side of this is the island, where the [[Funnel (ship)|funnel]], air-traffic control and the [[bridge (nautical)|bridge]] are located.

The constraints of constructing a flight deck affect the role of a given carrier strongly, as they influence the weight, type, and configuration of the aircraft that may be launched. For example, assisted launch mechanisms are used primarily for heavy aircraft, especially those loaded with air-to-ground weapons. CATOBAR is most commonly used on US Navy fleet carriers as it allows the deployment of heavy jets with full load-outs, especially on ground-attack missions. STOVL is used by other navies because it is cheaper to operate and still provides good deployment capability for [[fighter aircraft]].

Due to the busy nature of the flight deck, only 20 or so aircraft may be on it at any one time. A hangar storage several decks below the flight deck is where most aircraft are kept, and aircraft are taken from the lower storage decks to the flight deck through the use of an elevator. The hangar is usually quite large and can take up several decks of vertical space.<ref>{{cite web|title=How Aircraft Carriers Work|website=How Stuff Works|first=Tom|last=Harris|date=29 August 2002|url=http://science.howstuffworks.com/aircraft-carrier6.htm|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006205343/http://science.howstuffworks.com/aircraft-carrier6.htm|archive-date=6 October 2013}}</ref>

Munitions are commonly stored on the lower decks because they are highly explosive. Usually this is below the waterline so that the area can be flooded in case of emergency.

===Flight deck===
{{Main|Flight deck}}
[[File:US Navy 081124-N-3659B-305 F-A-18C Hornets launch from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).jpg|thumb|[[Aircraft catapult|Catapult]] launches aboard {{USS|Ronald Reagan}}]]

As "runways at sea", aircraft carriers have a flat-top [[flight deck]], which [[Takeoff|launches]] and [[landing|recovers]] aircraft. Aircraft launch forward, into the wind, and are recovered from astern. The flight deck is where the most notable differences between a carrier and a land runway are found. Creating such a surface at sea poses constraints on the carrier. For example, the size of the vessel is a fundamental limitation on runway length. This affects take-off procedure, as a shorter runway length of the deck requires that aircraft [[Acceleration|accelerate]] more quickly to gain lift. This either requires a thrust boost, a vertical component to its velocity, or a reduced take-off load (to lower mass). The differing types of deck configuration, as above, influence the structure of the flight deck. The form of launch assistance a carrier provides is strongly related to the types of aircraft embarked and the design of the carrier itself.

There are two main philosophies to keep the deck short: add thrust to the aircraft, such as using a Catapult Assisted Take-Off (CATO-); and changing the direction of the airplanes' thrust, as in Vertical and/or Short Take-Off (V/STO-). Each method has advantages and disadvantages of its own:
* [[CATOBAR|Catapult Assisted Take-Off Barrier Arrested Recovery]] (CATOBAR): A steam- or electric-powered [[Aircraft catapult|catapult]] is connected to the aircraft, and is used to accelerate conventional aircraft to a safe flying speed. By the end of the catapult stroke, the aircraft is airborne and further propulsion is provided by its own engines. This is the most expensive method as it requires complex machinery to be installed under the flight deck, but allows for even heavily loaded aircraft to take off.
* [[STOBAR|Short Take-Off Barrier Arrested Recovery]] (STOBAR) depends on increasing the net lift on the aircraft. Aircraft do not require catapult assistance for take off; instead on nearly all ships of this type an upwards vector is provided by a ski-jump at the forward end of the flight deck, often combined with thrust vectoring by the aircraft. Alternatively, by reducing the fuel and weapon load, an aircraft is able to reach faster speeds and generate more upwards lift and launch without a ski-jump or catapult.
* [[STOVL|Short Take-Off Vertical-Landing]] (STOVL): On aircraft carriers, non-catapult-assisted, fixed-wing short takeoffs are accomplished with the use of [[thrust vectoring]], which may also be used in conjunction with a runway "[[Ski-jump (aviation)|ski-jump]]". Use of STOVL tends to allow aircraft to carry a larger payload as compared to during VTOL use, while still only requiring a short runway. The most famous examples are the [[Hawker Siddeley Harrier]] and the [[BAe Sea Harrier]]. Although technically VTOL aircraft, they are operationally STOVL aircraft due to the extra weight carried at take-off for fuel and armaments. The same is true of the [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|Lockheed F-35B Lightning II]], which demonstrated VTOL capability in test flights but is operationally STOVL or in the case of UK uses "[[shipborne rolling vertical landing]]".
* [[VTOL|Vertical Take-Off and Landing]] (VTOL): Certain aircraft are specifically designed for the purpose of using very high degrees of thrust vectoring (e.g. if the thrust to weight-force ratio is greater than 1, it can take off vertically), but are usually slower than conventionally propelled aircraft due to the additional weight from associated systems.

On the recovery side of the flight deck, the adaptation to the aircraft load-out is mirrored. Non-VTOL or conventional aircraft cannot decelerate on their own, and almost all carriers using them must have arrested-recovery systems (-BAR, e.g. CATOBAR or STOBAR) to recover their aircraft. Aircraft that are landing extend a [[tailhook]] that catches on [[arrestor wires]] stretched across the deck to bring themselves to a stop in a short distance. Post-World War II Royal Navy research on safer CATOBAR recovery eventually led to universal adoption of a landing area angled off axis to allow aircraft who missed the arresting wires to "bolt" and safely return to flight for another landing attempt rather than crashing into aircraft on the forward deck.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}}<ref>{{Cite web|title=Why Aircraft Carriers Have an Angled Runway|date=2 November 2017|url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/a28881/aircraft-carriers-angle-runway/}}</ref>

If the aircraft are VTOL-capable or helicopters, they do not need to decelerate and hence there is no such need. The arrested-recovery system has used an angled deck since the 1950s because, in case the aircraft does not catch the arresting wire, the short deck allows easier take off by reducing the number of objects between the aircraft and the end of the runway. It also has the advantage of separating the recovery operation area from the launch area. [[Helicopter]]s and aircraft capable of vertical or short take-off and landing ([[V/STOL]]) usually recover by coming abreast of the carrier on the port side and then using their hover capability to move over the flight deck and land vertically without the need for arresting gear.

====Staff and deck operations====
[[File:F-18 - A 3-wire landing.ogv|thumb|left|F/A-18 Hornet aircraft landing video]]

Carriers steam at speed, up to {{convert|35|kn|lk=in}} into the wind during flight deck operations to increase wind speed over the deck to a safe minimum. This increase in effective wind speed provides a higher launch airspeed for aircraft at the end of the catapult stroke or ski-jump, as well as making recovery safer by reducing the difference between the relative speeds of the aircraft and ship.

Since the early 1950s on conventional carriers it has been the practice to recover aircraft at an angle to port of the axial line of the ship. The primary function of this angled deck is to allow aircraft that miss the arresting wires, referred to as a [[Bolter (aviation)|bolter]], to become airborne again without the risk of hitting aircraft parked forward. The angled deck allows the installation of one or two "waist" catapults in addition to the two bow cats. An angled deck also improves [[launch and recovery cycle]] flexibility with the option of simultaneous launching and recovery of aircraft.

Conventional ("tailhook") aircraft rely upon a [[landing signal officer]] (LSO, radio call sign 'paddles') to monitor the aircraft's approach, visually gauge glideslope, attitude, and airspeed, and transmit that data to the pilot. Before the angled deck emerged in the 1950s, LSOs used colored paddles to signal corrections to the pilot (hence the nickname). From the late 1950s onward, visual landing aids such as the [[optical landing system]] have provided information on proper [[glide slope]], but LSOs still transmit voice calls to approaching pilots by radio.

Key personnel involved in the flight deck include the shooters, the handler, and the air boss. Shooters are [[naval aviator]]s or [[naval flight officer]]s and are responsible for launching aircraft. The handler works just inside the island from the flight deck and is responsible for the movement of aircraft before launching and after recovery. The "air boss" (usually a [[commander]]) occupies the top bridge (Primary Flight Control, also called ''primary'' or ''the tower'') and has the overall responsibility for controlling launch, recovery and "those aircraft in the air near the ship, and the movement of planes on the flight deck, which itself resembles a well-choreographed ballet".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/ships/carriers/powerhouse/powerhouse.asp|title=The US Navy Aircraft Carriers|publisher=United States Navy|access-date=30 January 2009|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090221142917/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/ships/carriers/powerhouse/powerhouse.asp|archive-date=21 February 2009}}</ref> The captain of the ship spends most of his time one level below primary on the Navigation Bridge. Below this is the Flag Bridge, designated for the embarked admiral and his staff.

To facilitate working on the flight deck of a US aircraft carrier, the sailors wear colored shirts that designate their responsibilities. There are at least seven different colors worn by flight deck personnel for [[modern United States Navy carrier air operations]]. Carrier operations of other nations use similar color schemes.

====Deck structures====
[[File:US Navy 100512-N-8446A-004 An F-A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Fighting Checkmates of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65).jpg|thumb|Island control structure of {{USS|Enterprise|CVN-65|6}}]]
[[File:FS CDG bridge3.jpg|alt=|thumb|The command bridge of the aircraft carrier {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||2}}]]

The superstructure of a carrier (such as the [[bridge (ship)|bridge]], flight [[control tower]]) are concentrated in a relatively small area called an ''island'', a feature pioneered on {{HMS|Hermes|95|6}} in 1923. While the island is usually built on the [[starboard]] side of the flight deck, the Japanese aircraft carriers {{ship|Japanese aircraft carrier|Akagi||2}} and {{ship|Japanese aircraft carrier|Hiryū||2}} had their islands built on the [[Port and starboard|port]] side. Very few carriers have been designed or built without an island. The ''flush deck'' configuration proved to have significant drawbacks, primary of which was management of the exhaust from the power plant. Fumes coming across the deck were a major issue in {{USS|Langley|CV-1|6}}. In addition, lack of an island meant difficulties managing the flight deck, performing air traffic control, a lack of radar housing placements and problems with navigating and controlling the ship itself.{{sfn|Friedman|1983|pp=241–243}}

Another deck structure that can be seen is a [[ski-jump ramp]] at the forward end of the flight deck. This was first developed to help launch [[STOVL|short take off vertical landing]] (STOVL) aircraft take off at far higher weights than is possible with a vertical or rolling takeoff on flat decks. Originally developed by the Royal Navy, it since has been adopted by many navies for smaller carriers. A ski-jump ramp works by converting some of the forward rolling movement of the aircraft into vertical velocity and is sometimes combined with the aiming of jet thrust partly downward. This allows heavily loaded and fueled aircraft a few more precious seconds to attain sufficient air velocity and lift to sustain normal flight. Without a ski-jump, launching fully-loaded and fueled aircraft such as the Harrier would not be possible on a smaller flat deck ship before either [[Stall (flight)|stalling out]] or crashing directly into the sea.

Although STOVL aircraft are capable of taking off vertically from a spot on the deck, using the ramp and a running start is far more fuel efficient and permits a heavier launch weight. As catapults are unnecessary, carriers with this arrangement reduce weight, complexity, and space needed for complex steam or electromagnetic launching equipment. Vertical landing aircraft also remove the need for arresting cables and related hardware. Russian, Chinese, and Indian carriers include a ski-jump ramp for launching lightly loaded conventional fighter aircraft but recover using traditional carrier arresting cables and a tailhook on their aircraft.

The disadvantage of the ski-jump is the penalty it exacts on aircraft size, payload, and fuel load (and thus range); heavily laden aircraft cannot launch using a ski-jump because their high loaded weight requires either a longer takeoff roll than is possible on a carrier deck, or assistance from a catapult or [[JATO]] rocket. For example, the Russian [[Sukhoi Su-33]] is only able to launch from the carrier {{ship|Russian aircraft carrier|Admiral Kuznetsov||2}} with a minimal armament and fuel load. Another disadvantage is on mixed flight deck operations where helicopters are also present, such as on a US [[landing helicopter dock]] or [[landing helicopter assault]] amphibious assault ship. A ski jump is not included as this would eliminate one or more helicopter landing areas; this flat deck limits the loading of Harriers but is somewhat mitigated by the longer rolling start provided by a long flight deck compared to many STOVL carriers.

==National fleets==
{{See also|List of aircraft carriers#Numbers of aircraft carriers by country{{!}}List of aircraft carriers by country|List of aircraft carriers in service}}
[[File:Countries who are currently, or have in the past, operated aircraft carriers.png|thumb|upright=1.5|
{{legend|#0000FE|Countries currently operating fixed-wing aircraft carriers (10)}}
{{legend|#B6E41F|Countries currently solely operating helicopter carriers (6)}}
{{legend|#9AD9EA|Countries that have operated carriers in the past but no longer do so (3)}}]]

The US Navy has the largest fleet of carriers in the world, with eleven supercarriers in service as of 2024. China and India each have two STOBAR carriers in service. The UK has two STOVL carriers in service. The navies of France and Russia each operate a single medium-sized carrier.{{efn|Russian carrier has not been operational since 2018; it is expected to be launched again in 2024.}} The US also has nine similarly sized Amphibious Warfare Ships. There are five small light carriers in use capable of operating both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters; Japan and Italy each operate two, and Spain one.

Additionally there are eighteen small carriers which only operate helicopters serving the navies of Australia (2), Brazil (1), China (2), Egypt (2), France (3), Japan (4), South Korea (2), Thailand (1) and Turkey (1).

===Algeria===
;Current
[[Algerian amphibious transport dock Kalaat Béni Abbès|''Kalaat Béni Abbès'']] (L-474) is an [[amphibious transport dock]]<ref name="San Giusto Class">{{cite web|url=https://www.fincantieri.com/en/products-and-services/naval-vessels/enhanced-san-giusto-class/|title=ENHANCED SAN GIUSTO CLASS|publisher=Fincantieri|access-date=14 November 2018}}</ref> of the [[Algerian National Navy]] with two deck-landing spots for helicopters.

===Australia===
[[File:HMAS Canberra (LHD 02) at berth prior to commissioning.jpg|thumb|{{HMAS|Canberra|L02|6}}, a {{sclass|Canberra|landing helicopter dock|1}}]]
;Current
The [[Royal Australian Navy]] operates two {{sclass|Canberra|landing helicopter dock|1}}s. The two-ship class, based on the Spanish vessel {{ship|Spanish ship|Juan Carlos I|L61|2}} and built by [[Navantia]] and [[BAE Systems Australia]], represents the largest ships ever built for the Royal Australian Navy.<ref name="Naval-technology.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/canberra-class-landing-helicopter-docks-lhds/|title=Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Docks (LHDs), Australia|publisher=Naval-technology.com|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016235237/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/canberra-class-landing-helicopter-docks-lhds|archive-date=16 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{HMAS|Canberra|L02|6}} underwent [[sea trial]]s in late 2013 and was commissioned in 2014. Her [[sister ship]], {{HMAS|Adelaide|L01|6}}, was commissioned in December 2015. The Australian ships retain the ski-ramp from the ''Juan Carlos I'' design, although the RAN has not acquired carrier-based fixed-wing aircraft.

===Brazil===
;Current
In December 2017, the [[Brazilian Navy]] confirmed the purchase of {{HMS|Ocean|L12|6}} for (GBP) £84.6&nbsp;million (equivalent to R$359.5M and US$113.2M) and renamed her {{ship|Brazilian amphibious assault ship|Atlântico||2}}. The ship was decommissioned from Royal Navy service in March 2018. The [[Brazilian Navy]] commissioned the carrier on 29 June 2018 in the United Kingdom. After undertaking a period of maintenance in the UK, the ship travelled to its new home port, [[Arsenal de Marinha do Rio de Janeiro]] (AMRJ) to be fully operational by 2020.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/76245/brazil-hopes-to-buy-commission-uk-s-hms-ocean-by-june-2018|title=Brazil hopes to buy, commission UK's HMS Ocean by June 2018|website=Jane's 360|first=Victor|last=Barreira|date=7 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171213080336/http://www.janes.com/article/76245/brazil-hopes-to-buy-commission-uk-s-hms-ocean-by-june-2018 |archive-date=13 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naval.com.br/blog/2017/12/21/o-ocean-e-do-brasil-mb-conclui-compra-do-porta-helicopteros-por-84-milhoes-de-libras-e-da-forca-um-novo-capitania/|title=O Ocean é do Brasil! MB conclui a compra do porta-helicópteros por 84 milhões de libras e dá à Força um novo capitânia – Poder Naval – A informação naval comentada e discutida|date=21 December 2017|access-date=30 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180428172519/http://www.naval.com.br/blog/2017/12/21/o-ocean-e-do-brasil-mb-conclui-compra-do-porta-helicopteros-por-84-milhoes-de-libras-e-da-forca-um-novo-capitania/|archive-date=28 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensa.com/brasil/marina-brasil-compra-portaviones-hms-ocean-royal-navy-britanica|title=La Marina de Brasil compra el portaviones HMS ''Ocean'' a la Royal Navy británica-noticia defensa.com|last=Defensa.com|date=22 December 2017|access-date=30 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625021535/https://www.defensa.com/brasil/marina-brasil-compra-portaviones-hms-ocean-royal-navy-britanica |archive-date=25 June 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> The ship displaces 21,578 tonnes, is {{convert|203.43|m|sp=us}} long and has a range of {{convert|8000|nmi}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.naval.com.br/blog/2018/08/24/phm-atlantico-caracteristicas-tecnicas-e-operacionais/ |title=PHM Atlântico: características técnicas e operacionais|work=naval.com.br|date=24 August 2018|access-date=5 August 2022|language=pt-br}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://tecnodefesa.com.br/phm-a-140-atlantico-e-armado-com-canhao-bushmaster-mk-44-ii-de-30-mm/|title=PHM A-140 Atlântico é armado com canhão Bushmaster MK.44 II de 30 mm|work=tecnodefesa.com.br|date=8 July 2018|access-date=5 August 2022|language=pt-br}}</ref>

Before leaving [[HMNB Devonport]] for her new homeport in Rio's AMRJ, ''Atlântico'' underwent operational sea training under the Royal Navy's Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST) program.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/81405/brazil-commissions-helicopter-carrier |title=Brazil commissions helicopter carrier |work=Jane's|date=29 June 2018|first=Victor|last=Barreira|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722092018/http://www.janes.com/article/81405/brazil-commissions-helicopter-carrier|archive-date=22 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.naval.com.br/blog/2018/06/29/mostra-de-armamento-do-porta-helicopteros-multiproposito-atlantico |title=Mostra de Armamento do Porta-Helicópteros Multipropósito Atlântico|work=Naval|date=29 June 2018|access-date=17 July 2018|archive-date=28 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428193901/https://www.naval.com.br/blog/2018/06/29/mostra-de-armamento-do-porta-helicopteros-multiproposito-atlantico/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 12 November 2020, ''Atlântico'' was redesignated "NAM", for "multipurpose aircraft carrier" ({{langx|pt|Navio Aeródromo Multipropósito}}), from "PHM", for "multipurpose helicopter carrier" ({{langx|pt|Porta-Helicópteros Multipropósito}}), to reflect the ship's capability to operate with fixed-wing [[medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle]]s as well as crewed [[tiltrotor]] [[VTOL]] aircraft.<ref name="Poder Naval">{{cite news|url=https://www.naval.com.br/blog/2020/11/26/porta-helicopteros-atlantico-agora-e-navio-aerodromo-multiproposito/|title=Porta-Helicópteros Atlântico agora é Navio-Aeródromo Multipropósito|publisher=Poder Naval|language=pt-br|date=26 November 2020}}</ref>

===China===
[[File:Type 002 aircraft carrier of People's Liberation Army Navy (cropped).jpg|thumb|{{ship|Chinese aircraft carrier|Shandong||2}}, a [[Kuznetsov-class aircraft carrier|Type 002 aircraft carrier]]]]
{{main|Chinese aircraft carrier programme}}
;Current
2 [[STOBAR]] carriers:
* {{ship|Chinese aircraft carrier|Liaoning||2}} (60,900 tons) was originally built as the uncompleted Soviet {{sclass|Kuznetsov|aircraft carrier|0}} carrier ''Varyag''<ref name="bbc20110608">{{cite news|title=China aircraft carrier confirmed by general|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-13692558|publisher=[[BBC News]]|date=8 June 2011|access-date=9 June 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609071512/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-13692558|archive-date=9 June 2011}}</ref> and was later purchased as an [[hulk (ship)|hulk]] from [[Ukraine]] in 1998 on the pretext of commercial use as a floating [[casino]], then towed to China for rebuild and completion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://behindthewall.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/09/25/14092055-china-brings-its-first-aircraft-carrier-into-service-joining-9-nation-club|title=China brings its first aircraft carrier into service, joining 9-nation club|work=Behind The Wall|publisher=NBC |date=25 September 2012|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101072426/http://behindthewall.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/09/25/14092055-china-brings-its-first-aircraft-carrier-into-service-joining-9-nation-club|archive-date=1 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Liaoning'' was commissioned on 25 September 2012 and began service for testing and training.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-19710040|title=China's first aircraft carrier enters service|publisher=BBC News|date=25 September 2012|access-date=30 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928095622/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-19710040|archive-date=28 September 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2012, ''Liaoning'' launched and recovered [[Shenyang J-15]] naval fighter aircraft for the first time.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Axe|first=David |url=https://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2012-11/26/china-aircraft-carrier-launches-first-jet|title=China's aircraft carrier successfully launches its first jet fighters|magazine=Wired |date=26 November 2012|access-date=30 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129051257/http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2012-11/26/china-aircraft-carrier-launches-first-jet|archive-date=29 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.foxnews.com/world/china-lands-first-jet-on-its-aircraft-carrier/ |title=China lands first jet on its aircraft carrier|publisher=Fox News|date=25 November 2012|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031033017/http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/11/25/china-lands-first-jet-on-its-aircraft-carrier/|archive-date=31 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> After a refit in January 2019, she was assigned to the [[North Sea Fleet]], a change from her previous role as a [[training ship]].
* {{ship|Chinese aircraft carrier|Shandong||2}} (60,000–70,000 tons) was launched on 26 April 2017, the first to be built domestically based on an improved ''Kuznetsov''-class design. ''Shandong'' started [[sea trial]]s on 23 April 2018,<ref name="scmp 4/18">{{cite news|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/2142989/chinas-first-home-grown-aircraft-carrier-begins-maiden|title=China's first home-grown Type 001A aircraft carrier begins maiden sea trial|newspaper=[[South China Morning Post]]|date=23 April 2018|access-date=29 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180429015117/http://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/2142989/chinas-first-home-grown-aircraft-carrier-begins-maiden|archive-date=29 April 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> and entered service in December 2019.<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Myers|first1=Steven Lee |date=17 December 2019 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/17/world/asia/china-aircraft-carrier.html|url-access=limited|archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220101/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/17/world/asia/china-aircraft-carrier.html |archive-date=2022-01-01 |title=China Commissions 2nd Aircraft Carrier, Challenging US Dominance|newspaper=The New York Times}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
1 CATOBAR carrier:
* {{ship|Chinese aircraft carrier|Fujian||2}} (80,000 tons) is a conventionally powered [[CATOBAR]] carrier that was under construction between 2015 and 2016 before being completed in June 2022.<ref name="scmp">{{cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3182032/china-launches-fujian-pla-navys-3rd-aircraft-carrier|title=China launches Fujian, PLA Navy's 3rd aircraft carrier|author=Jack Lau|work=[[South China Morning Post]]|date=17 June 2022}}</ref> She is being [[fitting out|fitted out]] as of 2022 and will commence service in 2023–2024.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/2070262/no-advanced-jet-launch-system-chinas-third-aircraft-carrier-experts-say|title=No advanced jet launch system for China's third aircraft carrier, experts say|last=Chan|first=Minnie|date=14 February 2017|newspaper=South China Morning Post|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170418215118/http://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/2070262/no-advanced-jet-launch-system-chinas-third-aircraft-carrier-experts-say|archive-date=18 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3009262/satellite-images-show-how-work-chinas-new-type-002-aircraft|title=Satellite images show how work on China's new Type 002 aircraft carrier is coming along|date=7 May 2019|work=[[South China Morning Post]]|access-date=7 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190507153924/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3009262/satellite-images-show-how-work-chinas-new-type-002-aircraft|archive-date=7 May 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/may/07/china-third-aircraft-carrier-construction-satellite-images|title=Images show construction of China's third aircraft carrier, thinktank says|newspaper=[[The Guardian]]|date=7 May 2019|access-date=7 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190507222218/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/may/07/china-third-aircraft-carrier-construction-satellite-images|archive-date=7 May 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> 
3 [[landing helicopter dock|LHD]] amphibious assault ships
*A [[Type 075 landing helicopter dock|Type 075 LHD]], {{ship|Chinese landing helicopter dock|Hainan||2}} was commissioned on 23 April 2021 at the [[South Sea Fleet]] naval base in [[Sanya]].<ref name=":0">{{cite web|last=Vavasseur|first=Xavier|date=2021-04-24|title=China Commissions a Type 055 DDG, a Type 075 LHD and a Type 094 SSBN in a Single Day|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/04/china-commissions-a-type-055-ddg-a-type-075-lhd-and-a-type-094-ssbn-in-a-single-day/|access-date=2021-04-25|website=Naval News|archive-date=25 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425051356/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/04/china-commissions-a-type-055-ddg-a-type-075-lhd-and-a-type-094-ssbn-in-a-single-day/|url-status=live}}</ref> A second ship, ''Guangxi'', was commissioned on 26 December 2021<ref>{{cite web|last=Vavasseur|first=Xavier|date=2021-12-30|title=China's 2nd Type 075 LHD Guangxi 广西 Commissioned With PLAN|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/12/chinas-2nd-type-075-lhd-guangxi-广西-commissioned-with-plan/|access-date=2022-01-01|website=Naval News|archive-date=26 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220226215025/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/12/chinas-2nd-type-075-lhd-guangxi-%E5%B9%BF%E8%A5%BF-commissioned-with-plan/|url-status=live}}</ref> and a third ship, ''Anhui'', was commissioned in October 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vavasseur|first=Xavier|date=2022-10-01|title=China's 3rd Type 075 LHD Anhui 安徽 Commissioned With PLAN|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/10/chinas-3rd-type-075-lhd-anhui-安徽-commissioned-with-plan/|access-date=2023-03-31|website=Naval News}}</ref>

;Future
China has had a long-term plan to operate six large aircraft carriers with two carriers per fleet.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/chinas-plan-6-aircraft-carriers-just-sank-103207|title=China's Plan for 6 Aircraft Carriers Just 'Sank'|date=9 December 2019|access-date=12 January 2020|archive-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804151817/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/chinas-plan-6-aircraft-carriers-just-sank-103207|url-status=live}}</ref>

China is planning a class of eight LHD vessels, the Type 075 ([[NATO reporting name]] Yushen-class [[landing helicopter assault]]). This is a class of [[amphibious assault ship]] under construction by the [[Hudong–Zhonghua Shipbuilding]] company.{{cn|date=January 2025}} The first ship was commissioned in April 2021.<ref name=":0" /> China is also planning a modified class of the same concept, the [[Type 076 landing helicopter dock]], that will be equipped with an [[electromagnetic catapult]] system<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3094912/chinese-shipbuilder-planning-advanced-amphibious-assault-ship|title=China planning advanced amphibious assault ship|date=27 July 2020|access-date=8 March 2021|archive-date=23 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123051019/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3094912/chinese-shipbuilder-planning-advanced-amphibious-assault-ship|url-status=live}}</ref> and will likely support launching [[unmanned combat aerial vehicle]]s.

===Egypt===
;Current
Egypt signed a contract with French shipbuilder [[DCNS (company)|DCNS]] to buy two {{sclass|Mistral|amphibious assault ship|0}} helicopter carriers for approximately 950&nbsp;million euros. The two ships were originally to be sold to Russia, but the deal was cancelled by France due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=41009:egypt-signs-mistral-contract-with-france&catid=51:Sea&Itemid=106|title=Egypt signs Mistral contract with France|website=defenceweb.co.za|date=12 October 2015|access-date=12 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117014212/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=41009:egypt-signs-mistral-contract-with-france&catid=51:Sea&Itemid=106|archive-date=17 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 2 June 2016, Egypt received the first of two helicopter carriers acquired in October 2015, the landing helicopter dock {{ship|Egyptian ship|Gamal Abdel Nasser||2}}. The flag transfer ceremony took place in the presence of Egyptian and French Navies' chiefs of staff, chairman and chief executive officers of both DCNS and STX France, and senior Egyptian and French officials.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.dcnsgroup.com/news/dcns-delivers-the-first-mistral-class-helicopter-carrier-to-the-egyptian-navy-the-lhd-gamal-abdel-nasser/|title=DCNS DELIVERS THE FIRST MISTRAL-CLASS HELICOPTER CARRIER TO THE EGYPTIAN NAVY, THE LHD GAMAL ABDEL NASSER|date=2 June 2016|access-date=24 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160709102947/http://en.dcnsgroup.com/news/dcns-delivers-the-first-mistral-class-helicopter-carrier-to-the-egyptian-navy-the-lhd-gamal-abdel-nasser/|archive-date=9 July 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On 16 September 2016, DCNS delivered the second of two helicopter carriers, the landing helicopter dock {{ship|Egyptian ship|Anwar El Sadat||2}} which also participated in a joint [[military exercise]] with the French Navy before arriving at her home port of [[Alexandria]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://en.dcnsgroup.com/news/dcns-delivers-the-second-mistral-class-helicopter-carrier-to-the-egyptian-navy-the-lhd-anwar-el-sadat/ |title=DCNS DELIVERS THE SECOND MISTRAL-CLASS HELICOPTER CARRIER TO THE EGYPTIAN NAVY, THE LHD ANWAR EL SADAT|date=16 September 2016|access-date=17 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922152801/http://en.dcnsgroup.com/news/dcns-delivers-the-second-mistral-class-helicopter-carrier-to-the-egyptian-navy-the-lhd-anwar-el-sadat/|archive-date=22 September 2016}}</ref>

===France===
[[File:French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle (R91) underway in the Red Sea on 15 April 2019 (190415-N-IL409-0017).JPG|thumb|right|The aircraft carrier {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||2}} of the [[French Navy]]]]

;Current
The [[French Navy]] operates the 42,000-tonne nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||2}}. Commissioned in 2001, she is the flagship of the French Navy. The ship carries a complement of [[Dassault Rafale]]&nbsp;M and [[Grumman E-2 Hawkeye|E-2C Hawkeye]] aircraft, [[Eurocopter EC725|EC725 Caracal]] and [[Eurocopter AS532 Cougar|AS532 Cougar]] helicopters for [[combat search and rescue]], as well as modern electronics and [[MBDA Aster|Aster]] missiles. She is a [[CATOBAR]]-type carrier that uses two 75&nbsp;m C13-3 steam catapults of a shorter version of the catapult system installed on the US {{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|0}} carriers, one catapult at the bow and one across the front of the landing area.{{citation needed|date=November 2022}} In addition, the French Navy operates three {{sclass|Mistral|landing helicopter dock|1}}s.<ref name="Mistral Class – Amphibious Assault Ships">{{cite web|title=Mistral Class – Amphibious Assault Ships – Naval Technology|url=https://www.naval-technology.com/projects/mistral/|website=Naval Technology|access-date=1 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180101194552/https://www.naval-technology.com/projects/mistral/|archive-date=1 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

;Future
In October 2018, the French Ministry of Defence began an 18-month study for €40&nbsp;million for the eventual future replacement of the {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||6|wl=no}} beyond 2030. In December 2020, President Macron announced that construction of the [[Future French aircraft carrier|next generation carrier]] would begin in around 2025 with sea trials to start in about 2036. The carrier is planned to have a displacement of around 75,000 tons and to carry about 32 next-generation fighters, two to three E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes and a yet-to-be-determined number of unmanned carrier air vehicles.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.usni.org/2020/12/08/president-macron-announces-start-of-new-french-nuclear-aircraft-carrier-program|title=President Macron Announces Start of New French Nuclear Aircraft Carrier Program|date=8 December 2020|access-date=13 December 2020|archive-date=24 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224204430/https://news.usni.org/2020/12/08/president-macron-announces-start-of-new-french-nuclear-aircraft-carrier-program|url-status=live}}</ref>

===India===
[[File:IAC1 Vikrant during sea trials (cropped).png|thumb|{{INS|Vikrant|2013|6}} (IAC-1) at sea during her maiden [[sea trials]]]]

;Current
2 [[STOBAR]] carriers:

{{INS|Vikramaditya}}, 45,400 tonnes, [[Kiev-class aircraft carrier|modified ''Kiev'' class]]. The carrier was purchased by India on 20 January 2004 after years of negotiations at a final price of $2.35&nbsp;billion ({{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=2,035,000,000|start_year=2004|r=-6|fmt=eq}}). The ship successfully completed her sea trials in July 2013 and aviation trials in September 2013. She was formally commissioned on 16 November 2013 at a ceremony held at Severodvinsk, Russia.<ref name= ibnlive>{{cite web|title=Aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya inducted into Indian Navy|work=IBN Live|publisher=IN |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/aircraft-carrier-ins-vikramaditya-inducted-into-indian-navy/434490-3.html|access-date=16 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131118010905/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/aircraft-carrier-ins-vikramaditya-inducted-into-indian-navy/434490-3.html|archive-date=18 November 2013}}</ref>

{{INS|Vikrant|2013|6}}, also known as ''Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 1 (IAC-1)'' a 45,000-tonne, {{convert|262|m|ft|adj=mid|-long}}<ref>{{cite web|title='Historical moment': Sea trials begin for India's first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant [VIDEO] |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/historical-moment-sea-trials-begin-for-india-s-first-indigenous-aircraft-carrier-ins-vikrant/794623|access-date=2021-08-05|website=timesnownews.com |date=4 August 2021|archive-date=5 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210805213802/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/historical-moment-sea-trials-begin-for-india-s-first-indigenous-aircraft-carrier-ins-vikrant/794623|url-status=live}}</ref> aircraft carrier whose keel was laid in 2009.<ref name="iac">{{cite web|title=Indian Aircraft Carrier (Project 71)|work=Indian Navy [Bharatiya Nau Sena]|publisher=Bharat Rakshak |url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Ships/Future/185-Indian-Aircraft-Carrier.html|access-date=11 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217185025/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Ships/Future/185-Indian-Aircraft-Carrier.html |archive-date=17 February 2012}}</ref> The new carrier will operate [[MiG-29K]] and naval [[HAL Tejas]] aircraft.<ref name="iac" /> The ship is powered by gas-turbines and has a range of {{convert|8000|nmi|km|abbr=off}} and deploys 10 helicopters and 30 aircraft.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/cochin-shipyard-undocks-ins-vikrant-115061101387_1.html|title=Cochin Shipyard undocks INS Vikrant |author=Kochi|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=11 June 2015|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170828104127/http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/cochin-shipyard-undocks-ins-vikrant-115061101387_1.html|archive-date=28 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The ship was launched in 2013, sea-trials began in August 2021 and was commissioned on 2 September 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indigenous-aircraft-carrier-to-be-named-ins-vikrant-is-biggest-ship-made-in-india/article34970142.ece|title=Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, to be named INS Vikrant, is biggest ship made in India |work=The Hindu|date=25 June 2021|archive-date=28 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210628174202/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indigenous-aircraft-carrier-to-be-named-ins-vikrant-is-biggest-ship-made-in-india/article34970142.ece|access-date=31 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-modi-commissions-ins-vikrant-indias-indigenous-aircraft-carrier/article65839748.ece/amp/|title=India's indigenous aircraft carrier and largest warship INS Vikrant joins Navy|work=The Hindu|date=2 September 2022|access-date=31 December 2022}}</ref>

;Future
India has plans for a third carrier, {{INS|Vishal}}, also known as ''Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 2 (IAC-2)'' with a displacement of over 65,000 tonnes and is planned with a [[CATOBAR]] system to launch and recover heavier aircraft.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thediplomat.com/2015/04/us-india-collaboration-on-aircraft-carriers-a-good-idea/|title=US-India Collaboration on Aircraft Carriers: A Good Idea?|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519090247/https://thediplomat.com/2015/04/us-india-collaboration-on-aircraft-carriers-a-good-idea/|archive-date=19 May 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

India has also issued a request for information (RFI) to procure four [[Landing helicopter dock]] displacing 30,000–40,000 tons with a capacity to operate 12 medium lift special ops and two heavy lift helicopters and troops for amphibious operations.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://indiannavy.nic.in/sites/default/files/RFI%20for%20Procurement%20of%20four%20LPD%20for%20Uploading.pdf?download=1|title=RFI for the procurement of four LPD|website=Indian Navy|date=26 August 2021|access-date=27 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210825135726/https://indiannavy.nic.in/sites/default/files/RFI%20for%20Procurement%20of%20four%20LPD%20for%20Uploading.pdf?download=1|archive-date=25 August 2021}}</ref>

===Italy===
[[File:Italian aircraft carrier Cavour.jpg|thumb|Italian aircraft carrier ''Cavour'' (550)]]
;Current
1 STOVL carrier:
* {{ship|Italian aircraft carrier|Cavour|550|2}}: 30,000-tonne Italian STOVL carrier designed and built with secondary amphibious assault facilities, commissioned in 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.freewebs.com/jeffhead/worldwideaircraftcarriers/cavour.htm|work=World Wide Aircraft Carriers|title=Cavour Page|publisher=Free webs|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141012175238/http://www.freewebs.com/jeffhead/worldwideaircraftcarriers/cavour.htm|archive-date=12 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>

;Future
Italy plans to replace the now decommissioned aircraft carrier ''Giuseppe Garibaldi'', as well as one of the {{sclass|San Giorgio|amphibious transport dock|0}} landing helicopter docks, with a new amphibious assault ship, to be named {{ship|Italian landing helicopter dock|Trieste||2}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marina.difesa.it/uominimezzi/nuoviprogetti/Documents/Piano%20di%20dismissioni%20delle%20Unit%C3%A0%20Navali%20entro%20il%202025.pdf|title=Piano di dismissioni delle Unità Navali entro il 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170916034955/http://www.marina.difesa.it/uominimezzi/nuoviprogetti/Documents/Piano%20di%20dismissioni%20delle%20Unit%C3%A0%20Navali%20entro%20il%202025.pdf|archive-date=16 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.difesa.it/Content/Documents/DPP/DPP_2017_2019_Approvato_light.pdf|title=Documento Programmatico Pluriennale 2017–2019|publisher=Minestro della Difesa|language=it|access-date=13 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412083949/http://www.difesa.it/Content/Documents/DPP/DPP_2017_2019_Approvato_light.pdf|archive-date=12 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> The ship will be significantly larger than her predecessors with a displacement of 38,000 tonnes at full load. ''Trieste'' is to carry the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter.<ref>{{cite web|title=Third Italian F-35B Goes to the Italian Air Force. And the Italian Navy Is Not Happy at All.|url=https://theaviationist.com/2020/02/26/third-italian-f-35b-goes-to-the-italian-air-force-and-the-italian-navy-is-not-happy-at-all/|date=26 February 2020|website=The Aviationist|access-date=29 May 2020|archive-date=20 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200520022032/https://theaviationist.com/2020/02/26/third-italian-f-35b-goes-to-the-italian-air-force-and-the-italian-navy-is-not-happy-at-all/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=https://www.marina.difesa.it/media-cultura/Notiziario-online/Pagine/20210817_Fulge_super_mare_Risplende_sul_mare_la_nave_d_assalto_anfibio_multiruolo_trieste.aspx|title="Fulge super mare", risplende sul mare la nuova nave da assalto anfibio multiruolo costruita a Castellammare di Stabia|language=it|publisher=Marina Militare|date=17 August 2021|access-date=15 February 2022|archive-date=29 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211229005829/https://www.marina.difesa.it/media-cultura/Notiziario-online/Pagine/20210817_Fulge_super_mare_Risplende_sul_mare_la_nave_d_assalto_anfibio_multiruolo_trieste.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> Meanwhile, ''Giuseppe Garibaldi'' will be transferred to [[Space Operations Command (Italy)|Italian Space Operation Command]] for use as a satellite launch platform.<ref>{{cite web|author=(di Tiziano Ciocchetti)|url=https://www.difesaonline.it/mondo-militare/il-garibaldi-lancer%C3%A0-orbita-satelliti|title=Il Garibaldi lancerà in orbita satelliti – Difesa Online|language=it|publisher=Difesaonline.it|access-date=2022-02-10|archive-date=24 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124135353/https://www.difesaonline.it/mondo-militare/il-garibaldi-lancer%C3%A0-orbita-satelliti}}</ref>

===Japan===
[[File:DDH-183 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Helicopter carrier [[JS Izumo|''Izumo'' (DDH-183)]] at sea]]

;Current
* 2 {{sclass|Izumo|multi-purpose destroyer|1}}s – {{convert|820|ft|m|adj=mid|-long|order=flip}}, 19,500-tonne (27,000 tonnes full load) STOVL carrier ''Izumo'' was launched August 2013 and commissioned March 2015. ''Izumo''{{'}}s sister ship, ''Kaga'', was commissioned in 2017.
In December 2018, the Japanese Cabinet gave approval to convert both ''Izumo-class'' destroyers into aircraft carriers for F-35B [[STOVL]] operations.<ref name="CNNDec1818">{{cite news|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2018/12/18/asia/japan-aircraft-carriers-intl/index.html|title=Japan to have first aircraft carriers since World War II|publisher=CNN|date=18 December 2018|access-date=18 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181218145649/https://edition.cnn.com/2018/12/18/asia/japan-aircraft-carriers-intl/index.html|archive-date=18 December 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> The conversion of ''Izumo'' was underway as of mid-2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/maritime-antisub/6365-japanese-izumo-carrier-modification-progresses-well|title=Japanese Izumo carrier modification progresses well|date=29 June 2020|access-date=30 June 2020|archive-date=30 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630131734/https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/maritime-antisub/6365-japanese-izumo-carrier-modification-progresses-well|url-status=live}}</ref> The modification of maritime escort vessels is to "increase operational flexibility" and enhance Pacific air defense,<ref name="navalnews.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/08/usmc-to-first-fly-f-35b-from-japans-izumo-class-aircraft-carriers/|title=USMC to Fly First F-35B from Japan's Izumo-class Aircraft Carriers|date=21 August 2019|access-date=12 October 2020|archive-date=7 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201007023345/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/08/usmc-to-first-fly-f-35b-from-japans-izumo-class-aircraft-carriers/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/2018/12/18/asia/japan-aircraft-carriers-intl/index.html|title=Japan to have first aircraft carriers since World War II|author=Brad Lendon and Yoko Wakatsuki|publisher=CNN|date=18 December 2018|access-date=21 July 2021|archive-date=2 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002040115/https://www.cnn.com/2018/12/18/asia/japan-aircraft-carriers-intl/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> the Japanese defense ministry's position is "We are not creating carrier air wings or carrier air squadrons" similar to the US Navy.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}} The Japanese STOVL F-35s, when delivered, will be operated by the [[Japan Air Self Defense Force]] from land bases; according to the 2020 Japanese Defense Ministry white paper the STOVL model was chosen for the JASDF due the lack of appropriately long runways to support air superiority capability across all of Japanese airspace.<ref name="airforce-technology.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/uncategorised/lack-of-runways-spurred-japans-f-35b-purchase/|title=Lack of runways spurred Japan's F-35B purchase|website=airforce-technology.com|date=21 August 2020|access-date=14 October 2020|archive-date=23 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923064448/https://www.airforce-technology.com/uncategorised/lack-of-runways-spurred-japans-f-35b-purchase/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.usni.org/2019/05/29/japan-maritime-self-defense-force-expanding-as-tokyo-takes-new-approach-to-maritime-security|title=Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Expanding as Tokyo Takes New Approach to Maritime Security|date=29 May 2019|access-date=14 October 2020|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026195747/https://news.usni.org/2019/05/29/japan-maritime-self-defense-force-expanding-as-tokyo-takes-new-approach-to-maritime-security|url-status=live}}</ref> Japan has requested that the USMC deploy STOVL F-35s and crews aboard the ''Izumo-class'' ships "for cooperation and advice on how to operate the fighter on the deck of the modified ships".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.usni.org/2019/08/23/marines-considering-flying-u-s-f-35bs-off-of-japans-largest-warships|title=Marines Considering Flying U.S. F-35Bs off of Japan's Largest Warships|date=23 August 2019|access-date=12 October 2020|archive-date=1 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101011437/https://news.usni.org/2019/08/23/marines-considering-flying-u-s-f-35bs-off-of-japans-largest-warships|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="navalnews.com"/>
On 3 October 2021, two USMC F-35Bs performed the first vertical landings and horizontal take-offs from JS ''Izumo'', marking 75 years since fixed-wing aircraft operated from a Japanese carrier.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/marine-corps-f35bs-landed-on-japans-converted-aircraft-carrier-izumo-2021-10|title=Japan is converting its 2 biggest warships into aircraft carriers, and US Marines are helping it train to use them|work=Business Insider|last=Brimelow|first=Benjamin|date=8 October 2021|access-date=20 October 2021}}</ref>

* 2 {{sclass|Hyūga|helicopter destroyer|1}}s – 19,000-tonne (full load) [[anti-submarine warfare carrier]]s with enhanced command-and-control capabilities allowing them to serve as fleet flagships.

===Qatar===
;Current
* [[Qatari amphibious transport dock Al Fulk]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ziezulewicz |first=Geoff |date=2024-12-02 |title=Qatar's Strange New Warship Combines Air Defense Frigate And Amphibious Assault Ship Roles |url=https://www.twz.com/sea/qatars-navy-now-has-a-versatile-unusual-amphibious-mother-ship-of-its-own |access-date=2024-12-14 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Russia===
[[File:Russian aircraft carrier Kuznetsov.jpg|thumb|{{ship|Russian aircraft carrier|Admiral Kuznetsov}}]]

;Current
1 STOBAR carrier: [[Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov|''Admiral Flota Sovetskogo Soyuza Kuznetsov'']]: 55,000-tonne {{sclass|Kuznetsov|aircraft carrier|0}} [[STOBAR]] aircraft carrier. Launched in 1985 as ''Tbilisi'', renamed and operational from 1995. Without catapults she can launch and recover lightly fueled naval fighters for air defense or anti-ship missions but not heavy conventional bombing strikes.{{Citation needed|date=June 2013}} Officially designated an aircraft carrying cruiser, she is unique in carrying a heavy cruiser's complement of defensive weapons and large [[P-700 Granit]] offensive missiles. The P-700<ref>{{Cite web|last=Thakur|first=Vijainder K.|date=2023-11-22|title=Russia Bids Adieu To World's 'Most Destructive' P-700 Granit; Hypersonic Zircon Missile To Take Charge|url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/worlds-most-destructive-p-700-granit-anti-ship/|access-date=2024-06-27|website=Latest Asian, Middle-East, EurAsian, Indian News}}</ref> systems will be removed in the coming refit to enlarge her below decks aviation facilities as well as upgrading her defensive systems.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/surfaceships/kuznetzov/|title=Admiral Flota Sovetskogo Soyuza Kuznetsov|publisher=Rus navy|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171007100758/http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/surfaceships/kuznetzov/|archive-date=7 October 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

The ship has been out of service and in repairs since 2018. The current projection is that repairs will be completed and the ship will be transferred back to the Russian Navy sometime in 2024, however this may be pushed back to 2025 if issues arise during overhaul and testing.<ref name=UPravda20230109>{{cite news|author=Alona Mazurenko|title=Russians brought their only aircraft carrier to critical condition and looking for those responsible|newspaper=[[Ukrainska Pravda]]|date=9 January 2023|url=https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2023/01/9/7384073/|access-date=10 January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://flotprom.ru/2023/%D0%A1%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B9%D0%A4%D0%BB%D0%BE%D1%8221/|title=Источник ТАСС допустил сдвиг сдачи "Адмирала Кузнецова" на 2025 год|date=4 July 2023|access-date=7 July 2023|website=flotprom.ru|language=ru}}</ref>

;Future
The Russian Government has been considering the potential replacement of ''Admiral Kuznetsov'' for some time and has considered the [[Project 23000 aircraft carrier|Shtorm-class aircraft carrier]] as a possible option. This carrier will be a hybrid of CATOBAR and STOBAR, given the fact that she uses both systems of launching aircraft. The carrier is expected to cost {{clarify|text=between $1.8&nbsp;billion and $5.63&nbsp;billion.|reason=this range is too wide|date=January 2019}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tass.ru/en/russia/797980|title=Russia developing $5 bln aircraft carrier with no world analogs—fleet commander|agency=TASS|access-date=21 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319163641/http://tass.ru/en/russia/797980|archive-date=19 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> As of 2020, the project had not yet been approved and, given the financial costs, it was unclear whether it would be made a priority over other elements of Russian naval modernization.

A class of 2 LHD, [[Project 23900 amphibious assault ship|Project 23900]] is planned and an official keel laying ceremony for the project happened on 20 July 2020.<ref>{{cite web|last=Vavasseur|first=Xavier|date=21 July 2020|title=Russia Lays Keels of Next Gen LHD, Submarines and Frigates in Presence of Russian President Putin|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/07/russia-lays-keels-of-next-gen-lhd-submarines-and-frigates-in-presence-of-russian-president-putin/|access-date=25 August 2020|website=Naval News|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922052919/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/07/russia-lays-keels-of-next-gen-lhd-submarines-and-frigates-in-presence-of-russian-president-putin/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===South Korea===
[[File:Model of HHI proposal for CVX project.jpg|thumb|Conceptual model of [[CVX-class aircraft carrier]]]]
;Current
Two {{sclass|Dokdo|amphibious assault ship|0}} 18,860-tonne full deck amphibious assault ships with hospital and well deck and facilities to serve as fleet flagships.

;Future
South Korea has set tentative plans for procuring two light aircraft carriers by 2033, which would help make the ROKN a blue water navy.<ref name="yna1">{{cite web|url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20211202169100001?section=politics/all&site=major_news01_related|title=국방 분야 핵심공약 좌초 우려에 정무라인 물밑작업 끝 원안 통과문대통령, 경항모 중요성 거듭 강조…예산부활 보고받고는 '반색|work=Yonhap News Agency|date=3 December 2021|access-date=3 December 2021|archive-date=3 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203021009/https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20211202169100001?section=politics%2Fall&site=major_news01_related|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="defensenews.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131026/DEFREG03/310260005/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20131124144705/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131026/DEFREG03/310260005/|archive-date=24 November 2013|title=S. Korea Envisions Light Aircraft Carrier|work=Defense News|date=15 January 2014|access-date=19 January 2014}}</ref> In December 2020, details of South Korea's planned carrier program ([[CVX-class aircraft carrier|CVX]]) were finalized. A vessel of about 40,000 tons is envisaged carrying about 20 F-35B fighters as well as future maritime attack helicopters. Service entry had been anticipated in the early 2030s.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/01/south-korea-officially-starts-lpx-ii-aircraft-carrier-program/|title=South Korea Officially Starts LPX-II Aircraft Carrier Program|date=4 January 2021|access-date=4 January 2021|archive-date=4 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210104084439/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/01/south-korea-officially-starts-lpx-ii-aircraft-carrier-program/|url-status=live}}</ref> The program has encountered opposition in the National Assembly. In November 2021, the National Defense Committee of the National Assembly reduced the program's requested budget of 7.2&nbsp;billion KRW and to just 500 million KRW (about $400K USD), effectively putting the project on hold, at least temporarily.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/11/south-koreas-cvx-aircraft-carrier-project-faces-new-budget-cuts/|title=South Korea's CVX Aircraft Carrier Project Faces New Budget Cuts|work=Naval News |last=Lee |first=Daehan |date=16 November 2021|access-date=28 November 2021|url-status=live|archive-date=16 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116220138/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/11/south-koreas-cvx-aircraft-carrier-project-faces-new-budget-cuts/}}</ref> However, on 3 December 2021 the full budget of 7.2 billion won was passed by the National Assembly.<ref name="yna1" /> Basic design work is to begin in earnest starting 2022.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hankyung.com/politics/article/202112033171i |title=결국 되살아난 '경항모 예산' 72억…해군, 내년 기본설계 추진 |publisher=hankyung.com|date=3 December 2021|access-date=3 December 2021|archive-date=3 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203021008/https://www.hankyung.com/politics/article/202112033171i|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Spain===
[[File:El L-61 virando a babor en su partida de Vigo (34939349652).jpg|thumb|Spanish ''Juan Carlos I'' with [[McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II|Harrier II]]]]

;Current
{{ship|Spanish ship|Juan Carlos I|L61|2}}: a 27,000-[[tonne]], specially designed multipurpose strategic projection ship which can operate as an [[amphibious assault ship]] and as an aircraft carrier. Juan Carlos I has full facilities for both functions including a [[Aircraft ski-jump|ski jump]] for [[STOVL]] operations, is equipped with the [[AV-8B Harrier II]] attack aircraft. She also features a [[well deck]] and a vehicle storage area which can be used as additional hangar space. The vessel was launched in 2008 and commissioned on 30 September 2010.<ref>{{Citation|last=Head|first=Jeff|title=World wide aircraft carriers|contribution=BPE|publisher=Free webs |url=http://www.freewebs.com/jeffhead/worldwideaircraftcarriers/bpe.htm|access-date=8 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130409040019/http://www.freewebs.com/jeffhead/worldwideaircraftcarriers/bpe.htm|archive-date=9 April 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Thailand===
[[File:DN-SD-03-08801-1-.JPG|thumb|right|The aircraft carrier {{ship|HTMS|Chakri Naruebet}} of the [[Royal Thai Navy]]]]

;Current
1 offshore helicopter support ship: {{ship|HTMS|Chakri Naruebet}} helicopter carrier: 11,400-tonne STOVL carrier based on Spanish {{ship|Spanish aircraft carrier|Príncipe de Asturias||2}} design. Commissioned in 1997. The AV-8S Matador/Harrier STOVL fighter wing, mostly inoperable by 1999,<ref>{{cite book |editor-last1=Carpenter |editor-first1=William M. |editor-last2=Wiencek |editor-first2=David G. |title=Asian Security Handbook 2000 |publisher=M.E. Sharpe |location=Armonk, NY |year=2000 |isbn=9780765607140 |page=302}}</ref> was retired from service without replacement in 2006.<ref>{{cite web |first=Peter |last=Cooper |url=http://pacificwingsmagazine.com/2011/03/08/end-of-a-legend%E2%80%94harrier-farewell/ |access-date=26 October 2013 |title=End of a Legend – Harrier Farewell |website=Pacificwingsmagazine.com|date=8 March 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714183820/http://pacificwingsmagazine.com/2011/03/08/end-of-a-legend%E2%80%94harrier-farewell/|archive-date=14 July 2012}}</ref> As of 2010, the ship is used for helicopter operations and for disaster relief.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pattayadailynews.com/en/2010/11/03/thai-aircraft-carrier-assists-southern-relief-efforts/|title=Thai Aircraft Carrier Assists Southern Relief Efforts |work=Pattaya Daily News |date=4 November 2010|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014143123/http://www.pattayadailynews.com/en/2010/11/03/thai-aircraft-carrier-assists-southern-relief-efforts/|archive-date=14 October 2013}}</ref>

===Turkey===
[[File:TCG Anadolu (L-400) on the Bosphorus (cropped).jpg|thumb|[[TCG Anadolu|TCG ''Anadolu'' (L-400)]] at the [[Bosporus]] [[strait]] during the naval parade for celebrating the centenary of the Turkish Republic on 29 October 2023.]]
;Current
{{ship|TCG|Anadolu}} is a 27,079-tonne [[amphibious assault ship]] (LHD) (outfitted as [[drone carrier]]) of the [[Turkish Naval Forces|Turkish Navy]] that can be configured as a 24,660-tonne V/STOL aircraft carrier.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.enkucuk.com/ucak-gemisi-olan-ulkeleri-ogrenelim/|title=Uçak Gemisi Olan Ülkeleri Öğrenelim|date=23 November 2017|website=Enkucuk.com|access-date=24 April 2020|archive-date=29 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200129120057/http://www.enkucuk.com/ucak-gemisi-olan-ulkeleri-ogrenelim/|url-status=live}}</ref> Construction began on 30 April 2016 by Sedef Shipbuilding Inc. at their [[Istanbul]] shipyard.<ref>{{Citation|publisher=Anadolu Agency|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/science-technology/turkish-navys-flagship-to-enter-service-in-2020/1652082|title=Turkish Navy's flagship to enter service in 2020|access-date=21 November 2019|archive-date=30 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191130114509/https://www.aa.com.tr/en/science-technology/turkish-navys-flagship-to-enter-service-in-2020/1652082}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.turkishminute.com/2022/12/10/ysis-tcg-anadolu-the-most-powerful-warship-and-the-flagship-of-the-turkish-navy/|title=[ANALYSIS] TCG Anadolu: the most powerful warship and the flagship of the Turkish Navy|publisher=turkishminute.com|date=10 December 2022|access-date=31 December 2022}}</ref> TCG ''Anadolu'' was commissioned with a ceremony on 10 April 2023.<ref name="commission-CNN_Turk">{{cite web|url=https://www.cnnturk.com/video/turkiye/son-dakika-dunyanin-ilk-siha-gemisi-tcg-anadolu-teslim-toreninde-cumhurbaskani-erdogan-konusuyor|title=Dünyanın ilk SİHA gemisi TCG Anadolu! Cumhurbaşkanı Erdoğan: Nihai hedefimiz tam bağımsız savunma sanayiidir|publisher=[[CNN Türk]]|date=10 April 2023}}</ref><ref name="Helfrich">{{cite web|url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/turkeys-drone-carrier-amphibious-assault-ship-enters-service|title=Turkey's 'Drone Carrier' Amphibious Assault Ship Enters Service|author=Emma Helfrich|website=thedrive.com|date=11 April 2023}}</ref> The construction of a sister ship, to be named TCG ''Trakya'', is currently being planned by the Turkish Navy.<ref name="SavunmaSanayiST-2">{{cite web|url=https://www.savunmasanayist.com/deniz-kuvvetlerinden-tcg-trakya-aciklamasi/|title=Deniz Kuvvetlerinden TCG Trakya açıklaması|author=Anıl Şahin|website=SavunmaSanayiST.com|date=14 February 2019|access-date=4 April 2020|archive-date=12 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200212204851/https://www.savunmasanayist.com/deniz-kuvvetlerinden-tcg-trakya-aciklamasi/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="DenizHaber1">{{cite web|url=https://www.denizhaber.com/guncel/tcg-trakya-ne-zaman-bitecek-h81915.html|title=TCG Trakya ne zaman bitecek?|author=Ahmet Doğan|publisher=DenizHaber.com|date=9 November 2019|access-date=4 April 2020|archive-date=12 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200212204853/https://www.denizhaber.com/guncel/tcg-trakya-ne-zaman-bitecek-h81915.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

The [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk#Export versions|Sikorsky S-70B Seahawk]] and the [[Bell AH-1 SuperCobra]] are the two main types of helicopters used on TCG ''Anadolu'', with the occasional use of [[Boeing CH-47 Chinook|CH-47F Chinook]] helicopters of the [[Turkish Land Forces|Turkish Army]] during military exercises and operations.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfLyjvOoSmE|title=TCG Anadolu eğitim gerçekleştirdi|publisher=[[TRT Haber]]|date=8 June 2023}}</ref> The AH-1W Super Cobras will eventually be complemented and replaced by the [[TAI T929 ATAK 2]].<ref name="Iddon-Forbes-24.11.2022">{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/pauliddon/2022/11/24/tcg-anadolu-turkeys-new-flagship-will-carry-unique-aircraft/?sh=14028ead6ccf|title=TCG Anadolu: Turkey's New Flagship Will Carry Unique Aircraft|author=Paul Iddon|work=Forbes|date=24 November 2022}}</ref>
	
The [[jet engine|jet]]-powered, [[stealth technology|low-observable]] drone [[Bayraktar Kızılelma|Bayraktar MIUS Kızılelma]]<ref name="Helfrich"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://baykartech.com/en/press/baykars-unmanned-fighter-aircraft-completes-first-flight/|title=Baykar's unmanned fighter aircraft completes first flight|website=baykartech.com |publisher=Baykar Technologies|date=15 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxVpXGf8e8I |title=Bayraktar Kızılelma's Formation Flights – A First in Aviation History |publisher=Baykar Technologies|date=5 June 2023}}</ref> and the [[Medium-altitude long-endurance UAV|MALE]] UAV [[Bayraktar TB3]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://baykartech.com/en/bayraktar-tb3/ |title=Bayraktar TB3|website=baykartech.com |publisher=Baykar Technologies}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://baykartech.com/en/uav/bayraktar-tb3/ |title=Bayraktar TB3 UCAV: General Information |website=baykartech.com |publisher=Baykar Technologies}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://baykartech.com/en/press/turkiyes-new-combat-drone-completes-endurance-flight-test/ |title=Türkiye's new combat drone completes endurance flight test|website=baykartech.com |publisher=Baykar Technologies|date=22 December 2023}}</ref> are two [[UCAV]]s that are specifically designed and manufactured by [[Baykar|Baykar Technologies]] to be used on TCG ''Anadolu''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/05/here-is-how-uavs-will-be-recovered-aboard-tcg-anadolu/|title=Here Is How UAVs Will Be Recovered Aboard TCG Anadolu|website=navalnews.com |publisher=Naval News|author=Tayfun Özberk|date=1 May 2022}}</ref> The maiden flight of [[TAI Anka-3]] (also part of Project MIUS), a jet-powered, [[flying wing]] type UCAV with stealth technology, was successfully completed on 28 December 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/turkeys-anka-3-flying-wing-unmanned-combat-air-vehicle-flies |title=Turkey's ANKA-3 Flying Wing Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle Flies|author=Thomas Newdick|website=thedrive.com|date=28 December 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-29/turkey-s-stealth-drone-anka-3-makes-debut-flight-with-ukraine-engine|title=Turkish Stealth Drone Makes Debut Flight After Years of Secrecy|publisher=[[Bloomberg News]]|date=29 December 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAnxwJk0h10|title=Turkey's ANKA III Fighter Drone Makes Debut Flight|publisher=Bloomberg Television|date=29 December 2023}}</ref>

On 19 November 2024, [[Baykar Bayraktar TB3]] UAV successfully landed and took-off from TCG ''Anadolu''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Trevithick |first=Joseph |date=2024-11-19 |title=TB3 Operates From Turkey’s ‘Drone Carrier’ Amphibious Assault Ship For The First Time |url=https://www.twz.com/air/tb3-drone-lands-takes-off-from-turkeys-drone-carrier-amphibious-assault-ship |access-date=2024-11-19 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}</ref> It was the first time a fixed-wing unmanned aircraft of this size and class had successfully landed on a short-runway [[landing helicopter dock]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ozberk |first=Tayfun |date=2024-11-19 |title=Bayraktar TB3 Takes off and land aboard Turkish carrier |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/11/bayraktar-tb3-takesoff-and-land-aboard-turkish-carrier/ |access-date=2024-11-20 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}}</ref>

;Future
{{main|MUGEM-class aircraft carrier}}
On 3 January 2024, the Turkish government approved the plan for the design and construction of a larger aircraft carrier,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/turkey-approves-plans-for-aircraft-carrier-additional-istanbul-class-frigates|title=Turkey approves plans for aircraft carrier, additional Istanbul-class frigates|author=Kate Tringham |website=Janes.com|publisher=Janes|date=5 January 2024}}</ref> named the [[MUGEM-class aircraft carrier|MUGEM-class]].<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024">{{cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/10/turkish-navy-unveils-mugem-a-fully-indigenous-aircraft-carrier/|title=Turkish Navy Unveils MUGEM: A Fully Indigenous Aircraft Carrier|author=Tayfun Ozberk|website=navalnews.com|publisher=Naval News|date=28 October 2024}}</ref>

On 15 February 2024, the Design and Projects Office of the Turkish Navy announced that it will be a STOBAR aircraft carrier with an overall length of {{convert|285|m|ft}},<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024"/> beam of {{convert|72|m|ft}},<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024"/> draught of {{convert|10.1|m|ft}},<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024"/> and displacement of 60,000 tons.<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024"/> It is to have a COGAG<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024"/> propulsion system and a maximum speed of more than {{convert|25|kn|mph kph}}.<ref name="NavalNews_28.10.2024"/>

===United Kingdom===
[[File:Merlin Mk2s arriving on HMS Queen Elizabeth ahead of CSG21.jpg|thumb|A [[AgustaWestland AW101|Merlin HM2]] [[Airborne early warning and control|AEW]] on {{HMS|Queen Elizabeth|R08|6}}'s [[flight deck]].]]

;Current
Two 80,600-tonne (est. full load)<ref>{{Cite book |last=Pape |first=Alex|title=Jane's Fighting Ships 2023-2024|date=April 2023 |publisher=Jane's Information Group Limited |isbn=9780710634283 |location=United Kingdom |pages=886 |language=en}}</ref> [[Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier|''Queen Elizabeth''-class]] STOVL carriers which operate the F-35 Lightning II. {{HMS|Queen Elizabeth|R08|6}} was commissioned in December 2017<ref>{{citation|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/06/26/hms-queen-elizabeth-will-help-britain-retake-place-among-military/|title=HMS Queen Elizabeth will help Britain retake its place among the military elite|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=26 June 2017|access-date=10 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180810174401/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/06/26/hms-queen-elizabeth-will-help-britain-retake-place-among-military/|archive-date=10 August 2018|url-status=live|last1=Coughlin|first1=Con}}</ref> and {{HMS|Prince of Wales|R09|6}} in December 2019.

''Queen Elizabeth'' undertook her first operational deployment in 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/hms-queen-elizabeth-leave-first-flight-trials-uk-waters|title=HMS Queen Elizabeth Closer to Becoming Operational as Carrier Leaves for Trials|date=24 January 2020|access-date=28 January 2020|archive-date=28 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128145016/https://www.forces.net/news/hms-queen-elizabeth-leave-first-flight-trials-uk-waters|url-status=live}}</ref> Each ''Queen Elizabeth''-class ship is able to operate around 40 aircraft during peacetime operations and is thought to be able to carry up to 72 at maximum capacity.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/hms-queen-elizabeth-all-you-need-know-about-britains-aircraft-carrier|title=HMS Queen Elizabeth: All You Need to Know About Britain's Aircraft Carrier|access-date=23 December 2019|archive-date=6 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200506144849/https://www.forces.net/news/hms-queen-elizabeth-all-you-need-know-about-britains-aircraft-carrier|url-status=live}}</ref> As of the end of April 2020, 18 F-35B aircraft had been delivered to the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force. "Full operating capability" for the UK's carrier strike capability had been planned for 2023 (two squadrons or 24 jets operating from one carrier).<ref name=NAO20>{{cite web|url=https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/007678-001-Carrier-Strike-preparing-for-deployment.pdf |title=Carrier Strike – Preparing for deployment|date=26 June 2020|publisher=National Audit Office|access-date=26 June 2020|archive-date=29 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629082857/https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/007678-001-Carrier-Strike-preparing-for-deployment.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> The longer-term aim remains for the ability to conduct a wide range of air operations and support amphibious operations worldwide from both carriers by 2026.<ref name=NAO20 /> They form the central part of the [[UK Carrier Strike Group]].
The ''Queen Elizabeth''-class ships are expected to have service lives of 50 years.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.babcockinternational.com/case-study/queen-elizabeth-class-aircraft-carriers/|title=Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers|website=Babcock International (babcockinternational.com)|access-date=7 June 2020|archive-date=7 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607081445/https://www.babcockinternational.com/case-study/queen-elizabeth-class-aircraft-carriers/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===United States===
[[File:USS Enterprise (CVN-80) artist depiction.jpg|thumb|{{USS|Enterprise|CVN-80}}, the third US Navy carrier to bear the name, is a ''Gerald R. Ford''-class carrier currently under construction and expected to enter service in 2028. (artist's impression)]]

;Current
11 CATOBAR carriers, all nuclear-powered:
*{{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|4}}: ten 101,000-tonne, {{convert|1092|ft|m|adj=mid|-long|sp=us|order=flip}} fleet carriers, the first of which was commissioned in 1975. A ''Nimitz''-class carrier is powered by two [[nuclear reactor]]s providing steam to four [[steam turbine]]s.
*{{sclass|Gerald R. Ford|aircraft carrier|4}}, one 100,000-tonne, {{convert|1106|ft|m|adj=mid|-long|sp=us|order=flip}} fleet carrier. The lead of the class {{USS |Gerald R. Ford|CVN-78|2}} came into service in 2017, with another nine planned to replace the aging ''Nimitz''-class ships.

Nine amphibious assault ships carrying vehicles, Marine fighters, attack and transport helicopters, and landing craft with STOVL fighters for [[Close air support|Close Air Support (CAS)]] and [[Combat Air Patrol|Combat Air Patrol (CAP)]]:
* {{sclass|America|amphibious assault ship|4}}: a class of 45,000-tonne amphibious assault ships, although the first two ships in this class, (Flight 0) do not have well decks, all subsequent ships (Flight I) are to have well decks. Two ships are currently in service out of a planned 11 ships. Ships of this class can have a secondary mission as a light aircraft carrier with 20 [[McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II|AV-8B Harrier II]], and in the future the [[F-35B Lightning II]] aircraft after unloading their Marine expeditionary unit.
* {{sclass|Wasp|amphibious assault ship|4}}: a class of 41,000-tonne amphibious assault ships, members of this class have been used in wartime in their secondary mission as light carriers with 20 to 25 AV-8Bs after unloading their Marine expeditionary unit. Seven ship currently in service of an original eight, with [[USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6)#July 2020 fire|one lost to fire]].
;Future
The current US fleet of ''Nimitz''-class carriers will be followed into service (and in some cases replaced) by the {{sclass |Gerald R. Ford|aircraft carrier|4}}. It is expected that the ships will be more automated in an effort to reduce the amount of funding required to maintain and operate the vessels. The main new features are implementation of [[Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System]] (EMALS) (which replaces the old steam catapults) and [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s.<ref name="Aircraft Carriers – CVN">{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=200&ct=4|title=Aircraft Carriers – CVN|publisher=United States Navy|access-date=26 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017130812/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=200&ct=4|archive-date=17 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> In terms of future carrier developments, Congress has discussed the possibility of accelerating the phasing-out of one or more ''Nimitz''-class carriers, postponing or canceling the procurement of CVN-81 and CVN-82, or modifying the purchase contract.<ref>O'Rourke, R. (2015). ''Navy Ford (CVN-78) Class Aircraft Carrier Program: Background and Issues for Congress''. Congressional Research Service Washington.</ref>

Following the deactivation of {{USS|Enterprise|CVN-65|6}} in December 2012, the US fleet comprised 10 fleet carriers, but that number increased back to 11 with the commissioning of ''Gerald R. Ford'' in July 2017. The [[United States House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces|House Armed Services Seapower subcommittee]] on 24 July 2007, recommended seven or eight new carriers (one every four years). However, the debate has deepened over budgeting for the $12–14.5&nbsp;billion (plus $12&nbsp;billion for development and research) for the 100,000-tonne ''Gerald R. Ford''-class carrier (estimated service 2017) compared to the smaller $2&nbsp;billion 45,000-tonne {{sclass|America|amphibious assault ship|1}}s, which are able to deploy squadrons of F-35Bs. The first of this class, {{USS|America|LHA-6|6}}, is now in active service with another, {{USS|Tripoli|LHA-7|6}}, and 9 more are planned.<ref name="AFAmag">{{cite magazine|last=Kreisher|first=Otto|title=Seven New Carriers (Maybe)|magazine=Air Force Magazine|volume=90|issue=10|pages=68–71|date=October 2007|publisher=Air Force Association|url=http://www.airforce-magazine.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2007/October%202007/1007carriers.aspx|access-date=2 October 2007|issn=0730-6784|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090423170322/http://www.airforce-magazine.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2007/October%202007/1007carriers.aspx|archive-date=23 April 2009|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.dailypress.com/2014/05/08/huntington-ingalls-newport-news-shipyard-upbeat-despite-budget-clouds/|title=Huntington Ingalls, Newport News shipyard upbeat despite budget clouds|newspaper=Daily Press|date=8 May 2014|access-date=29 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531105311/http://articles.dailypress.com/2014-05-08/business/dp-nws-huntingon-ingalls-earnings-20140508_1_sequestration-level-budget-cuts-return-rcoh-huntington-ingalls-industries|archive-date=31 May 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>

In a report to Congress in February 2018, the Navy stated it intends to maintain a "12 [[Hull classification symbol#Aircraft carrier type|CVN]] force" as part of its 30-year acquisition plan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=104353|title=Navy Submits 30-Year Ship Acquisition Plan|publisher=Navy|date=12 February 2018|access-date=14 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180214202919/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=104353|archive-date=14 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Aircraft carriers in preservation==
===Current museum carriers===
A few aircraft carriers have been preserved as museum ships. They are:
* {{USS|Yorktown|CV-10}} in [[Mount Pleasant, South Carolina|Mount Pleasant]], South Carolina
* {{USS|Intrepid|CV-11}} in New York City
* {{USS|Hornet|CV-12}} in [[Alameda, California|Alameda]], California
* {{USS|Lexington|CV-16}} in [[Corpus Christi, Texas|Corpus Christi]], Texas
* {{USS|Midway|CV-41}} in [[San Diego]], California
* {{ship|Soviet aircraft carrier|Kiev}} in [[Tianjin]], China
* {{ship|Soviet aircraft carrier|Minsk}} in [[Nantong]], China

===Former museum carriers===
* {{INS|Vikrant|1961}} was moored as a museum in [[Mumbai]] from 2001 to 2012, but was never able to find an industrial partner and was closed that year. She was scrapped in 2014.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2014-11-22|title=INS Vikrant, hero of '71 war, reduced to heap of scrap|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/dismantling-of-iconic-warship-ins-vikrant-begins/|access-date=2022-08-16|website=The Indian Express}}</ref>
* {{USS|Cabot|CVL-28}} was acquired for preservation by the Cabot Museum Foundation and moored in [[New Orleans]] from 1989 to 1997, but due to the Cabot Museum Foundation's failure to repay the [[United States Coast Guard|U.S. Coast Guard]] over $1 million for removal of hazardous materials and fees associated with its docking, it was seized by the [[United States Marshals Service|U.S. Marshals]] in 1999 and auctioned off to Sabe Marine Salvage. Scrapping of the ship began in November 2000.<ref>{{Cite web |title=USS Cabot - National Historic Landmarks (U.S. National Park Service) |url=https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalhistoriclandmarks/uss-cabot.htm |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=www.nps.gov |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1999-08-11 |title=Naval History News |url=https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/1999/december/naval-history-news |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=U.S. Naval Institute |language=en}}</ref>

=== Planned but cancelled museum carriers ===
* {{USS|Tarawa|LHA-1}} had a preservation campaign to bring her to the [[West Coast of the United States]] as the world's first amphibious assault ship museum.<ref>{{Cite web|title=USS Tarawa LHA-1 Amphibious Assault Ship US Navy Marines|url=https://www.seaforces.org/usnships/lha/LHA-1-USS-Tarawa.htm|access-date=2022-05-23|website=seaforces.org}}</ref> However, at [[RIMPAC]] 2024, on 9 July 2024, the ''Tarawa'' was sunk alongside {{USS|Dubuque (LPD-8)}} as [[SINKEX]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|date=23 July 2024|title=US and Partner Nations Conduct Multiple SINKEXs as Part of RIMPAC 2024|url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/3846516/us-and-partner-nations-conduct-multiple-sinkexs-as-part-of-rimpac-2024/|access-date=2024-08-17|publisher=United States Navy}}</ref>
<!-- 
===Future museum carriers=== empty ad unused section -->

==See also==
* [[Airborne aircraft carrier]]
* [[Aviation-capable naval vessel]]
* [[Carrier-based aircraft]]
* [[Drone carrier]]
* [[Lily and Clover]]
* [[Merchant aircraft carrier]]
* [[Mobile offshore base]]
* [[Project Habakkuk]]
* [[Seadrome]]
* [[Submarine aircraft carrier]]
* [[Unsinkable aircraft carrier]]

===Related lists===
{{Div col}}
* [[List of active French Navy ships]]
* [[List of active Italian Navy ships]]
* [[List of active Spanish Navy ships#Aircraft carrier and amphibious warfare|List of active Spanish aircraft carriers]]
* [[List of aircraft carrier classes of the United States Navy]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers by configuration]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers in service]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers of Germany]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers of Russia and the Soviet Union]]
* [[List of active Indian Navy ships#Aircraft carriers|List of aircraft carriers of the Indian Navy]]
* [[List of ships of the Imperial Japanese Navy#Aircraft carriers|List of aircraft carriers of the Japanese Navy]]
* [[People's Liberation Army Navy Surface Force#Aircraft carriers|List of aircraft carriers of the People's Liberation Army Navy (China)]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers of the Royal Navy]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers of the United States Navy]]
* [[List of aircraft carriers of World War II]]
* [[List of amphibious warfare ships]]
* [[List of carrier-based aircraft]]
* [[List of current ships of the Royal Canadian Navy]]
* [[List of escort carriers of the Royal Navy]]
* [[List of escort carriers of the United States Navy]]
* [[List of seaplane carriers of the Royal Navy]]
* [[List of sunken aircraft carriers]]
{{div col end}}

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==Bibliography==
{{Refbegin}}
* {{cite book|last1=Friedman|first1=Norman|title=U.S. Aircraft Carriers: An Illustrated Design History|date=1983|publisher=Naval Institute Press|isbn=9780870217395 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PvtTAAAAMAAJ|access-date=23 March 2020|archive-date=25 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725013429/https://books.google.com/books?id=PvtTAAAAMAAJ|url-status=live}}
* {{cite book|last=Hobbs|first=David|date=2009|title=A Century of Carrier Aviation: The Evolution of Ships and Shipborne Aircraft |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-bXNDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT209 |location=Barnsley, S Yorkshire|publisher=Seaforth Publishing |isbn=978-1783466986 |access-date=15 December 2021|archive-date=6 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220106081814/https://books.google.com/books?id=-bXNDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT209|url-status=live}}
* {{cite book|last1=Polak|first1=Christian|year=2005|title=Sabre et Pinceau: Par d'autres Français au Japon. 1872–1960 |others=Hiroshi Ueki (植木 浩), Philippe Pons, foreword; 筆と刀・日本の中のもうひとつのフランス (1872–1960)|language=fr, ja|publisher=éd. L'Harmattan}}
* {{cite book|last=Sturtivant|first=Ray|title=British Naval Aviation, The Fleet Air Arm, 1917–1990|publisher=Arm & Armour Press|year=1990 |location=London|isbn=0-85368-938-5}}
* {{cite book|last=Till|first=Geoffrey|chapter=Adopting the Aircraft Carrier: The British, Japanese, and American Case Studies|editor-last=Murray |editor-first=Williamson|editor-last2=Millet|editor-first2=Allan R|title=Military Innovation in the Interwar Period|publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=1996}}
{{Refend}}

==Further reading==
{{Refbegin}}
* Ader, Clement. ''Military Aviation'', 1909, Edited and translated by Lee Kennett, Air University Press, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, 2003, {{ISBN|978-1-58566-118-3}}.
* Chesneau, Roger. ''Aircraft Carriers of the World, 1914 to the Present: An Illustrated Encyclopedia''. Naval Institute Press, 1984.
* Francillon, René J, ''Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club US Carrier Operations off Vietnam'', 1988, {{ISBN|978-0-87021-696-1}}.
* {{cite book|last=Friedman|first=Norman|title=British Carrier Aviation: The Evolution of the Ships and Their Aircraft|publisher=Conway Maritime Press|year=1988|isbn=9780870210549|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=71svAAAAMAAJ|ref=none|access-date=23 March 2020|archive-date=25 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725013416/https://books.google.com/books?id=71svAAAAMAAJ|url-status=live}}
* {{cite journal|url=https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/newport-papers/17/|last1=Hone|first1=Thomas C.|first2=Norman|last2=Friedman|first3=Mark D.|last3=Mandeles|title=Innovation in Carrier Aviation|journal=Naval War College Newport Papers|number=37|year=2011|pages=1–171|access-date=23 March 2020|archive-date=23 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200323191721/https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/newport-papers/17/|url-status=live}}
* Melhorn, Charles M. ''Two-Block Fox: The Rise of the Aircraft Carrier, 1911–1929''. Naval Institute Press, 1974.
* Nordeen, Lon, ''Air Warfare in the Missile Age'', 1985, {{ISBN|978-1-58834-083-2}}.
* Polmar, Norman. '' Aircraft Carriers: A History of Carrier Aviation and its Influence on World Events, 1901–2006''. (two vols.) Potomac Books, 2006.
* {{cite book|last=Trimble|first=William F.|title=Admiral William A. Moffett: Architect of Naval Aviation|publisher=Smithsonian Institution Press|year=1994|isbn=9781612514284|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=k5uOBAAAQBAJ|ref=none|access-date=23 March 2020|archive-date=25 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725013326/https://books.google.com/books?id=k5uOBAAAQBAJ|url-status=live}}
* Wadle, Ryan David. ''United States navy fleet problems and the development of carrier aviation, 1929–1933''. PhD dissertation Texas A&M University, 2005. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150526133111/http://repository.tamu.edu/bitstream/handle/1969.1/2658/etd-tamu-2005B-HIST-Wadle.pdf online].
{{Refend}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Aircraft carriers}}
*{{YouTube|tsE9oCdSEEI|"Launch & Recover (1960)"}} – technical training film from the Royal Navy

{{Ship types}}
{{Warship types of the 19th & 20th centuries}}
{{Authority control}}

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[[Category:Aircraft carriers| ]]
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Return to Aircraft carrier.

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aircraft_carrier"