Chkalov is considered stronger because it has the more versatile toolset. Russian CV has a broadside attack-angle restriction in that all its weapons use that line of attack.
Chkalov has more options in that its':
Torpedo Bombers grouping is tight enough to attack bow-on with expectation of damage.
Dive Bombers are weak against Cruiser and Battleships due to low health but are very capable at hunting Destroyers with weak AA.
Chkalov has Skip Bombers. The Dive Bombers are in place of the Rockets a tech-tree Russian CV would have.
While Skip Bombers can be effective, their attack pattern is something that can be seen and planned for (needs a broadside). The HE Bomber reticle is fairly small so while RNG can be against you there is a fair expectation of damage regardless of the Destroyer's movement/positioning.
I tend to avoid playing Russian CV as I dislike the playstyle. The Broadside requirement combined with very slow planes makes for a lot of frustration as getting to the positions needed to be able to strike effectively. I prefer CVs with a more varied toolset.
The Chkalov does provide enough toolset variance that I do play her. She is very capable in Ranked matches against Battleship/Destroyer heavy comps.
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