Merlin AEW instead of an expensive Osprey conversion

Will Britain develop an Osprey-based airborne early warning aircraft?

That was considered unlikely in 2020, while Merlin-based Crowsnest offered a practical option for Britain and other F-35B carrier operators.

A British Osprey-based airborne early warning aircraft was considered unlikely in 2020. Merlin and Crowsnest already offered a helicopter solution suited to smaller carriers and landing helicopter docks. Japan and South Korea were suggested as possible customers for Merlin-based AEW on smaller F-35B-capable ships. Hawkeye could not take off from their ski ramps, while an Osprey conversion would face high operating costs.