VF-17 has formed already and I think VF-24. HT says carriers will be modeled "eventually", just no set date yet. So, yes, carrier ops will be here.
As for the rear view... yah, Hog's always been a two flyer plane. Solo all you'll do is hit silk early, or go R.I.P. Used to fly with VF-17 in WB. Great folks to learn tactics from, IMHO
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O.E. 'Tern' Dillon
"Live to Fly! Fly to Fight! Fight to Live!"