the Wasp-class LHDs were, in effect, follow-ons to the LHAs built in the 1970s), or a service life extension program (SLEP) of the five existing LHAs. The SLEP was rejected at once because the five ships were in no condition for reconstruction (the well deck size issue...
By the end of 1942, America’s carrier fleet was in precarious shape.Lexington, Hornet, YorktownandWasphad all been lost in combat in the Pacific, whileSaratogaandEnterprisewere both badly damaged and were in the yards for extensive repairs. The U.S. Navy needed a lar...