Its about having a capability, the option. the numbers. A flight of 4 Gr9s matched with say 3 F35s over Norway now would be quite force rather than, A merlin.
Shermans didnt have the largest gun or kill range but was good enough, and arguably better maybe than the often touted ww2 axis beasts. you have to go with what you got. or you end up with no aircraft to fly off your carriers (that also have no independent defense).
On that note another comparison is the combat rifle, most engagements are usually well below the medium or max range.
The above load out could easily sacrifice the tank stations and still field 12 brimstone. plus A2A. Cannon