Object
Four Escort Carriers (CVE-class — amphibious strike group's aviation component)
Four steel-hulled escort carriers—compact flattops with short flight decks and low island superstructures—appear as an intelligence marker of an amphibious strike group. Roughly the size of small carriers, each hull bristles with parked fighters and support gear; dark radar domes and deck markings signal naval aviation capability. Characters point to the count on maps and briefs; the revelation snaps staff attention to imminent air cover and escalation of the incursion.
2 appearances
Purpose
To carry, launch, and recover aircraft for close air support, convoy protection, and to extend naval airpower in amphibious or invasion operations.
Significance
Serves as a decisive clue that escalates the foreign-policy crisis—counting four CVEs converts a border incursion into a coordinated naval-air operation, forcing rapid staff realignment, political exposure, and immediate damage-control decisions.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used