How much difference would an early airborne-warning version of the Avenger make if available early in the war?
Short answerIt would substantially improve warning and fighter direction by detecting low-level attacks beyond the shipboard radar horizon.
NotesEven Swordfish radar was sometimes pressed into an improvised warning role, so a purpose-suited Avenger would be useful. The decisive gain is altitude: an airborne set sees attackers that use the curvature of the Earth to approach below shipboard radar coverage. Earlier detection reveals direction and timing, allowing a carrier force to position and organize its fighter interception.