[NathanielGreene]

This is actually a really good idea. We could do the same thing with the Japanese Akagi. We really need some IJN light CV's for Battle of the Philippine Sea as well as other late war battles for Pacific.

Shortening the Zuikaku/Shokaku and the generic CV would look better i think. Akagi has that really high flight deck.

How in depth can existing ships be modified?

I know a majority of IJN CVEs had no island, early on at least. That would definately add some variety to things.