How would the Falklands War change if modernized Malta-class carriers were available instead?
Short answerThe force would gain much stronger carrier aviation and airborne early warning, probably through retained Gannets or a later warning-aircraft solution.
NotesThe larger carriers would likely retain an airborne-warning aircraft, probably Gannets or a later equivalent. E-2 operations may be physically possible, although Britain would not necessarily choose that path. Either way, the core advantage is persistent early warning and a far larger carrier aviation margin.