Well, Jayand, I still argue the "Jockey" still supports the end effect - bomb, missile or whatever, in meeting its target. To that end, it isn't about the plane or jockey as you say. I'm pretty pleased to report that my view of many a young RAF officer today is that their outlook is very much aligned with that thinking. Jockeys are cogs in a wheel too, and they appreciate that.
Ultimately, both QECs will be another Sovereign way of projecting power, from the sea. Jets, AH, Marines....all power. Providing sense prevails and no sS willy waving starts to dictate deployments, all will be good. Defence Tasks and priorities should dictate where and when the QE-at-readiness embarks and it should always be available in times of crises where and when it's needed in the world. Thankfully we have a Joint Steering Group for such decisions.