The F-35B Option: the Future of Australian Naval Aviation?

Ever since the commissioning of the Canberra class LHDs in 2014, there has been substantial discussion over their use in the role of Light Aircraft Carrier, via the acquisition and deployment of the F-35B. Although the ADF has not made any public statements indicating interest in this capability, a persistent debate has continued within the Australian strategic community, one that has been dominated by the negative argument. This documentary aims to place that debate on much firmer ground by examining some of the claims made by the dominant 'no' camp, with the clear goal of improving the public discussion around the Canberra class and their potential to serve as STOVL carriers.

0:00 Introduction
5:22 The Canberra Class's Aviation Capability
14:06 Would the F-35B Option diminish the Canberra's Amphibious Capability?
20:46 Is the Air Group large enough to be useful?
30:16 How useful would this capability be to Australia?
35:24 What about the RAAF's tankers?
40:26 Cant Australia just rely on its allies?
43:30 The whole idea will just be too expensive
49:44 Conclusion