lightning carrier

English

Etymology

Blend of lightning +‎ aircraft carrier. From the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, the Lightning II jump jet, itself named after WWII Lockheed P-38 Lightning I, in turn, named after the lightning bolt and lightning.

Noun

lightning carrier (plural lightning carriers)

1. (nautical, military, aviation, slang) A small light fast aircraft carrier specialized in operating VTOL aircraft, used for controlling sea lanes, convoy escort, and, anti-submarine patrol (ASW)

Synonyms

• harrier carrier

 

Coordinate terms

• amphibious assault ship
• amphibious helicopter dock (AHD)
• ancillary carrier
• ASW carrier
• auxiliary carrier
• aviation cruiser
• commando carrier
• escort carrier
• helicopter carrier
• landing helicopter assault (LHA)
• landing helicopter dock (LHD)
• light carrier
• sea control ship
• ski-jump carrier
• STOL carrier
• VSTOL carrier
• VTOL carrier