A stronger postwar fleet still needs a new missile cruiser

In a stronger postwar Britain with Malta-class carriers, would Vanguard remain in service or give way to a heavy missile cruiser?

Vanguard would stay somewhat longer, but a purpose-built heavy missile cruiser would likely escort the Malta carriers and replace the unbuilt Tigers.

The scenario assumes a stronger postwar British economy, continued Malta-class carrier construction, and a larger Soviet threat. Vanguard might remain in service for a little longer, but her retention would be temporary. A purpose-built heavy missile cruiser would protect the Malta carriers and take the place of the Tiger class if those cruisers were never built. That route directs new construction toward carrier escort instead of forcing the role into an older ship or an unfinished wartime programme.