Why does the Royal Navy rely on helicopters rather than a dedicated fixed-wing AEW aircraft?
Short answerIts carriers cannot operate a conventional AEW aircraft, and helicopters provide sufficient defensive warning for the fleet's needs.
NotesThe Royal Navy needs an aircraft that can operate from its current carriers, which makes helicopters the practical choice. Their endurance and speed limit how far they can accompany a strike. That prevents them from providing the full forward warning-and-control role of a conventional fixed-wing aircraft. They can still remain aloft near the fleet and supply the defensive early warning the carriers require.