[Cyrien]

Well... here is my carrier design (max tech for demo)... and I also use a mix of specialized fighters.

Master Computer 3
Quantum Engine 3 x 6
Fighter Bay x 15
ECM 3
Quantum Reactor
Storage Bay 3 x 3
Phased Shield Gen 5
Wave Motion Gun 3 (Heavy Mount - Not Large but Heavy)

This gives me 80 fighters (40 assault 20 bomber and then whatever else I want, depending on what the carrier is doing) and a carrier more than capable of taking out those running away freighters all by its lonesome. No PD you say? That is what those escorting Frigates are for isn't it? IRL carriers go with Cruiser support and destroyer support. This is the modern navy and I find it works rather nicely in SE4 as well without the massive behemoth Battleships and Dreadnoughts which are notably missing from modern navies and my SE4 armadas. And with 480 damage every third round at range 8 I don't worry about weak transports. Don't even bother with fighters on those guys.