Since World War II, aircraft carrier designs have increased in size to accommodate a steady increase in aircraft size. The large, modern Nimitz class of US carriers has a displacement nearly four times that of the World War II–era USS Enterprise, yet its complement of aircraft is roughly the same—a consequence of the steadily increasing size and weight of military aircraft over the years. Today's aircraft carriers are so expensive that nations which operate them risk significant political, economic, and military impact if a carrier is lost, or even used in conflict. COUNT 4
QSN1 Why have aircraft carriers increased in size since World War II? ANS1 to accommodate a steady increase in aircraft size QSN2 How much more displacement does the modern Nimitz class have compared to the older USS Enterprise? ANS2 nearly four times QSN3 Why do nations risk significant political impacts if a carrier is lost or even used in conflict? ANS3 Today's aircraft carriers are so expensive QSN4 Which era does the USS Enterprise belong to? ANS4 World War II