1. While there are bar as many naval aviators as USAF pilots, I believe that the IS Navy operated more aircraft than any other country’s air force in the world except Russia. So it isn’t exactly a bare bones operation.
2. Flying fighters is the “sexiest” pilot role. Flying fighters off of aircraft carriers is arguably the “sexiest” fighter pilot role. They are viewed as the ones on the front line, and the first into action. I seriously doubt that they have any issues attracting talent.