WEGL12
VT-28
I have a quick question about the evolution of Naval aviation over the last two decades. I know times have changed along with current situations but I have always wondered why the Navy replaced several different airframes with the F-18. I know it's more cost efficient but is the F-18 really able to take the role of the F-14, A-6, A-7, and S-3? I understand it on a cost viewpoint but always wondered if the move was because current threats are not the traditional threats. Same question can be asked with the number of aircraft carriers. I noticed that in the early 90s seven or eight carriers were retired but only replaced by two or three new ships. I always assumed that the end of the Cold War had a lot to do with the draw down but wondered if we anticipate trouble with major countries in the future. Just interested in what people thought on this topic.