Q&A ยท 2:59:23-2:59:39

A British AEW version of the Canadair Argus

If Britain adopted the Canadair Argus for maritime patrol, its airborne-early-warning requirement would make an AEW derivative likely.

Question

Would a British Canadair Argus maritime-patrol fleet lead to an airborne-early-warning version?

Short answer

Probably, because Britain needed an AEW aircraft and the Argus airframe fitted the requirement.

Notes

The counterfactual replaces Britain's maritime-patrol path with the Canadair Argus. The airframe would probably follow the Shackleton into an airborne-early-warning role because Britain still needs that capability. The Argus profile appears suitable for carrying the required systems and endurance. The AEW version would be a mission-driven derivative of the Canadian patrol aircraft.