Actually, my main concern is the risk created by coupling one very and expensive project (the carriers) to the design of a particular model of new aircraft.
At least with CATOBAR there is the option of falling back to other designs.
Correct. Harriers are out of service for the RN/RAF, and good they should be. The French were prudent in using CATOBAR with their carriers. They get the advantage of Rafale, F-18, E2, etc etc. Plus they wisely chose nuclear power.
At least with CATOBAR there is the option of falling back to other designs.