Why an air-launched Polaris would be difficult

Was an air-launched version of the Royal Navy's Polaris missile sensible for the RAF?

It could offer an interesting range and strike profile, but the aircraft requirement, expense, and complexity make it a very difficult proposition.

An air-launched Polaris is not dismissed outright, but emphasizes the size of the aircraft needed to carry it. The result could create a different strike profile, yet at high financial and technical cost. It is a useful reminder that a missile's launch platform can dominate the feasibility calculation.