US could use ‘lightning carriers’ against PRCBy Jonathan Chin / Staff writerThe US Navy could use experimental “lightning carriers” in a possible conflict with China over Taiwan, Business Insider reported on Wednesday. The lightning carrier concept involves using converted amphibious assault ships (LHAs) carrying Lockheed Martin F-35B “Lightning II” stealth jets. “There is no comparison between a J-15 and an F-35B,” Thomas said, referring to the PLAN’s main carrier-based strike fighter. Lightning carriers carry fewer jets than fleet aircraft carriers, which can feature more than 50 jets, but are significantly cheaper and more versatile, as the configuration enables ships to switch between naval aviation and amphibious assault platform, he said. The US Navy is continuing to experiment with integrating lightning carriers with existing naval forces and formations, the report said.
