One of the clearest examples of conversion is USS Langley (CV-1). Launched in 1912 as the collier USS Jupiter, she was converted in 1919 into the US Navy’s first aircraft carrier.

How the world’s first aircraft carriers were born: 5 fascinating facts about their early evolution

From Pearl Harbor to the Falklands, carrier-based air power has rewritten military strategy, combining mobility, reach and devastating force projection.

When aircraft carriers changed history: Top 5 greatest airstrikes ever launched from sea

Modern supercarriers like the USS Gerald R. Ford, INS Vikrant, and HMS Queen Elizabeth represent the pinnacle of maritime engineering, self-sustaining hubs that can operate for months in hostile waters without support.

5,000 people, nuclear reactors and jet runways: How modern aircraft carriers power the world’s mightiest navies

Today, these mobile airbases remain the centrepiece of modern naval power, projecting air dominance, supporting amphibious operations and ensuring maritime security across vast oceans.

Top 7 nations operating the most aircraft carriers in 2025: Where does India stand?

Landing a jet on a moving aircraft carrier is one of the hardest tasks in aviation. Pilots face waves, weather, and tight spaces using advanced tech and intense training. But even with all this, human skill still decides success or failure. Here’s what makes it so tough.


How fighter jets land on moving aircraft carriers

Fighter jets can land safely only on aircraft carriers with specialised decks, arresting wires, and precise systems. Cargo ships and luxury yachts lack these features, making landings impossible. Naval aviation remains exclusive to purpose-built carriers. Read more below.

Can fighter jets land on moving ships without runways?

The US is likely to deploy nearly half of its aircraft carriers in the western Pacific this year, in a signal of deterrence against the increasing military activity in the region by China and North Korea, analysts said.

US to deploy 5 aircraft carriers in near China in show of strength

US to deploy 5 aircraft carriers in western Pacific in show of strength to China

In Cambodia, a Chinese naval base, which could accommodate an aircraft carrier, is nearly done. Satellite images released by BlackSky show significant infrastructure development.

Chinese naval base in Cambodia nearly complete. It has pier for aircraft carriers - see satellite images

Are Aircraft Carriers obsolete? Whenever it was thought that the age of carriers was over, a new tech would extend the life of carriers. The US spends more than $13 billion on each carrier, and yet they haven’t been deployed and tested in any actual war situation other than military exercises.

Are aircraft carriers obsolete or not?

A government source said the exercise was the North's 'largest ever' and presumably was watched by Kim Jung Un

North Korea marks military anniversary with firing drill