alternatehistory.com

The RN was early to embrace the big ASW helicopter, and the Whirlwind started displacing the Gannet as the ASW component of RN carriers from 1957 so by the early/mid 60s the fixed wing Gannet AS4 was out of RN service. About 20 minutes later the British govt decided that fixed wing carriers were not needed, especially not in the NATO ASW role.

So WI the RN decided to give the Gannet a major upgrade from the late 50s? The engine from the AEW3 was available to give a good power boost, and the latest ASW gear could be fitted giving it a new lease on life. The advantages over helicopters would be greater endurance, more sensors/weapons and vastly greater servicability.

Would have fixed wing ASW capability throughout the 60s have any bearing on the decision to retain a fixed wing carrier force in the RN?
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