Linked to this topic is that of the Royal Navy’s introduction of the JSF STOVL, Although capable of mach1 and probably stealthy + advanced weapons the future carriers will lack AEW Cover and air to air refuelling. Although MASC will help, it really isnt good enough. E2C hawkeye are the single most vital aircraft for any Carrier Battle Group. And given the UK’s refusal to allocate sufficient finance to fund this kind of project i suspect it will like most defence procurement fall well short of requirements.

If the choice was Best interceptor vs AEW, AEW gets my 1st choice every time.

If you are lost in the dark and cant find the light switch its the same kind of analogy. At sea/ air/ land its the same principle and if only the RN could afford it.

There can be no doubt China will become a huge naval power.
This has been going on since the early nineties when the chinese began copying Russian aircraft carriers and other vessels.

I suspect with their new economic might, there will be interesting developments in years to come, perhaps even a new arms race? 😮