Soviets Launch New Carrier
In a milestone for the Soviet navy, Moscow has launched the first of a new class of aircraft carrier capable of carrying conventional, high-performance fighter aircraft, the Defense Department said today.
Until now Soviet carriers have launched only helicopters and vertical short takeoff-and-landing (VSTOL) fighters. Defense Secretary Caspar W. Weinberger said the new nuclear-powered carrier, launched last month, will help Moscow project military power around the world when it becomes operational in about four years after outfitting and sea trials.
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