I know it's a tier 10 and WG prefer to keep them unlocked in elite configuration, but as they have shown with the Shimakaze, that rule is not set in stone.
Would allowing the Des Moine to upgrade its hull, (as in replacing the 12 single 20mm Oerlikons with 12 twin 40mm Bofors) rebalance the AA capability at tier 10?
It would seem that US cruisers are expected to be the dedicated fleet AA defence, with more short range DPS to actually shoot down tier 10 planes, keeping the 3" guns for fleet escort.
Interested to hear opinions.
Cheers
Nova
Alternatively they could give high tier carriers less reserve aircraft so they have to pick their targets much more carefully or risk losing their strike capability.