StrategyPage links to this USA Today article, which mentions the possibility of using a carrier, or converting another ship, for permanent use as a floating Special Forces platform (as the Kitty Hawk was used in Afghanistan). I’ve read about this idea, a sort of Super Amphibious Assault Ship, before, and it seems like it’s going to go ahead in one form or another. Which is good.

I think the converted carrier idea, although more expensive, is by far the best idea. We need a fast ship capable of storing lots of troops. A converted transport just won’t be as effective in getting to hot spots in a hurry. Plus, having an extra carrier around that can be easily re-converted for air operations will almost certainly come in handy.

The Constellation’s a fine ship (my Pa served on her back in the 60’s, and I’ve been on board a few times during her port calls to Seattle), and I’d hate to see her retired in ’03 when she’s got a perfectly good use. Sure, it’s more expensive than taking some junky freighter and popping a flight deck on top of it, but keeping a Super-Carrier afloat and operational gives the Navy a flexibility no other ship can provide.