[jeffcore]

There are several U.S. military aircraft that can operate from rudimentary airstrips, such as the A-10. While it's true most U.S. fighters aren't designed with engine protection systems like the MiG's, the requirement to operate from unpaved runway surfaces is so rare that it's not a real problem -- reducing weight and mechanical complexity.

[badminton1]

So you claim that in a naval battle, there's no chance that the surface of a carrier gets polluted with debris?

[jeffcore]

As a naval aviator myself, no I don't think this is a much of a problem as you're trying to make it out to be.

[badminton1]

I think that in a more symmetric engagement it would harder to keep things as clean. But that is just a thought. I appreciate your opinion.

[greedo]

It gets "polluted" frequently. Google "FOD walk."