An interesting side note is that through the carrier battles in 1942, both the Japanese and Americans were concerned that the other side would come upon the hulks of a sinking, capsizing fleet carrier abandoned in mid-ocean and capture it, towing the hulk back to a port thousands of miles away where it could be repaired and put to use against its former owner.
Now, I understand that the issue was that the losing side (or the side that thought they lost; it was often not clear at the time) could not tow the hulk fast enough to get away. But did both combatants seriously think that the other side would want to take their junked carrier, repair it, and completely refurbish it for use by their side?
Rather a 18th century idea for the most modern warship design of the 20th century! I know militaries are generally conservative, but...
Wouldn't it be cheaper (and more efficient) to build a new one outfitted just the way you want without retrofitting?
Would the officers and men of the capturing ship get prize money?- Uncle Ted
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