The Casablanca class CVE were fitted with an H2 Mod 1 hydraulic catapult. These began with a capability of launching 8,800lb at 70 knots (zero wind conditions) but were upgraded later in the war to 11,000lb at the same speed. Add in the ship's own speed (19 knots) plus any natural wind.
A (USN) Navy News article from Jan 1946 states the H2-1 were regularly capable of launching up to 18,000lb but without stating wind conditions.
So fuel and ammo load would depend on the available natural wind.
The first group flew ashore on 22nd June and flew their first combat mission 4 hours after landing (a rocket strike on Tinian). On 23rd June the two CVE were attacked. The response was to launch 4xP-47 on CAP which later flew onto Saipan. They would hardly be unarmed for that. And if they really intended to pare the weight down to an absolute minimum why fit drop tanks, even if empty? They were launched from 60 miles offshore.
This video shows the prep for the launch (incl fitting drop tanks and work of some kind on the wing guns) as well as the launchings themselves
A (USN) Navy News article from Jan 1946 states the H2-1 were regularly capable of launching up to 18,000lb but without stating wind conditions.
So fuel and ammo load would depend on the available natural wind.
I've dealt with the carrier speed issue. Max 19 not 30 knots. But what about no ammo and minimal fuel?
The first group flew ashore on 22nd June and flew their first combat mission 4 hours after landing (a rocket strike on Tinian). On 23rd June the two CVE were attacked. The response was to launch 4xP-47 on CAP which later flew onto Saipan. They would hardly be unarmed for that. And if they really intended to pare the weight down to an absolute minimum why fit drop tanks, even if empty? They were launched from 60 miles offshore.
This video shows the prep for the launch (incl fitting drop tanks and work of some kind on the wing guns) as well as the launchings themselves
HD Stock Video Footage - U.S. Army Air Force P-47 aircraft take off from USS Manila Bay, underway off the coast of Saipan, during World War II.
View 73rd Fighter Squadron vintage historic HD stock video footage in Pacific Ocean, 1944. Buy HD video and archival still photo images of clip number 65675047538.