Khe Sanh Class Medium Aircraft Carrier
Born out the CVV program of the mid-1970s and insistence from POTUS for a cheaper alternative to large and very expensive nuclear supercarriers like the Enterprises and Nimitz-class, the Khe Sanh-class was envisioned to fulfill just that role. Capable of an air wing of up to 40 aircraft under optimal conditions, the Khe Sanh-class is derived from the design of the Tarawa-class design, replacing a significant amount of the amphibious warfare facilities with additional aviation facilities and a much larger hangar. Also fitted with an angled-deck and a pair of steam catapults, the Khe Sanh is capable of operating anything in the Navy’s inventory, even the premier F-14 Tomcat. Five ships would be ordered, laid down, and built between 1976 and 1984, with the last ship, Crown Point, entering service late 1984. These ships would serve the Navy valiantly and draw the attention of allied nations, with the British Royal Navy expressing interest in a modified variant of the class.
Right, this was another fun one, inspired by a few different things and serving as an American counterpart to the Chelyabinsk. These ships bring with them about half the air wing of a proper supercarrier, with a full squadron of Tomcats, one of Intruders, as well as Vikings, Hawkeyes, and Prowlers. They are best suited for mid-intensity conflicts in which a nuclear supercarrier might not be necessary but a standard LHA or other hull would be deemed insufficient. With that I’ll stop rambling, enjoy!
