Would the Zero have transformed Luftwaffe escort operations?

Would the Luftwaffe have done better if it had the A6M Zero?

Probably not; the Zero's fragility, German doctrine, radar, and large RAF fighter numbers would still work against it.

The Zero's long range would not solve the Luftwaffe's escort problem by itself. Its vulnerability to .303 machine-gun fire would be especially dangerous against British fighters. Interweaving fighters could create firing opportunities against the Zero while denying it a steady attack. British radar and shorter defensive flying distances would help the RAF concentrate more aircraft against an incoming German formation. The Zero also fitted German escort doctrine poorly in this counterfactual, despite its speed and range.