I think this topic should be revised considdering the introduction of a fighter-bomber to Axis and Allies. Should this new air unit be the defacto “Naval Fighter” or carrier bases plane? Is this simply a dead concept, or can it be revised?
The entire premis behind a “Naval Fighter” is that land-based and carrier-bases planes are not interchangable. Aircraft carriers require specialized planes, both fighter/interceptors and attack planes.
Perhaps a simple rule would be this: wherever a plane is initially built, it is confined to that area of combat. A fighter deployed on land remains a land-based aircraft for the remainder of it’s life. A plane deployed on a carrier can only fight from a carrier.
I can already think of several problems for this rule, but I will allow others to comment…mostly because I’m tired.