Book excerpt: The modern aircraft carrier is without doubt one of the most exciting and hazardous operating environments in the field of warfare. The 'flattop' is a symbol of global military power without parallel, and it remains a capability beyond reach of all but the most well equipped navies. With the detail, precision and accuracy expected of Harpia Publishing, this latest volume provides a force report of the various air components and associated vessels fielded by those select nations that field fixed-wing-capable aircraft carriers.