re: #186 rwdflynavy

US military bases in Europe could provide the air strike capability without needing the carriers. Refueling capabilities for long range strike could come from any of the following bases, including Aviano and Incerlik. Carriers would allow for more intensive strike capabilities though, and the amphibious assault ships on station would not provide the same kind of strike capabilities.

That doesn’t preclude a carrier task force from being stationed in the region as it isn’t much of a stretch for a carrier to move from the Eastern Med to the coast of Libya.

But, as you note (and I’ve said previously), I would expect military action only if in self-defense or as to ensure the safe evacuation of foreign citizens (US, Nato-country).