The carrier argument extends beyond strike aircraft and combat air patrols. British anti-submarine doctrine relied on carriers to provide the bulk of the helicopter force, alongside the smaller detachments aboard escorts. Fighters could intercept reconnaissance aircraft before they located the fleet and provide an outer defence against air attack. They also protected anti-submarine helicopters, which could not be replaced indefinitely if enemy aircraft picked them off. Airborne early warning was another carrier capability inadequately accounted for in the cancellation argument.
Notable Point · 4:28-5:43
Carrier air cover protects the anti-submarine force
Carrier cancellation also removes the helicopter concentration, reconnaissance interception and early warning on which fleet operations depend.