If we have another ELLAMY type op, the Pumas will be on the sidelines with the half time oranges and a sick note from matron? £16 million per airframe well spent.... Does that limit RAF SH involvement somewhat?
An asset does not have to be able to do everything, that's why we have the three services with a variety of aircraft and capabilities.
The Puma HC2 is entering service to provide a more capable platform than its predecessor in providing battlefield helicopter support in a wider variety of operating environments. If that battlefield turns out to be the littoral, that's when the grey machines of the Navy should kick in to action.
So, does Puma 2 limit RAF SH involvement? No, that's what the Navy is for (in this case).