An Apache or Cobra has the huge disadvantage of having to set off twice as far in time ahead of an Osprey to get to the same place, and not being able to get that far.
If Ospreys are to look after themselves, without requiring F35s to coordinate to depart later and arrive at the same time, then something armed and the same shape as an Osprey might be required.
The Osprey has unique capabilities, that likely will eventually redeem its high cost and apparent sensitivity to careless handling/mechanical abnormalities.