A loaded deck

Australia may not have operated an aircraft carrier in 35 years but the RAN’s two amphibious assault ships boast very substantial aviation capabilities

Forty years ago, the navy’s new aircraft carrier to replace the venerable HMAS Melbourne appeared to be on the way and what better aircraft to equip it with than the revolutionary Sea Harrier.

Any doubts about Sea Harrier capability in frontline combat were dispelled by their performance in the 1982 Falklands War.