Why did Britain use destroyers and frigates as radar pickets during the war?

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Map showing the Falkland Islands War of 1982, with the left inset displaying southern South America, highlighting Argentina, the Falkland Islands, Argentine air force and naval bases, and the British 200-mile war zone. The main map details West and East Falkland, marking Argentine troop concentrations, areas of conflict, and the path of the British advance toward Stanley, along with key settlements and landing sites. — Falkland Islands War The Falkland Islands War zone (left) and route of British landing forces (right).

During the Falkland Islands War, the British task force faced a critical shortage of long-range air cover, relying on only about 20 short-range Sea Harrier naval jets. To compensate for this vulnerability and protect the two essential aircraft carriers—the loss of which would have likely forced a British withdrawal—the Royal Navy stationed a screening force of destroyers and frigates ahead of the fleet to serve as radar pickets.1

These ships were positioned to provide early warning of incoming threats; however, because not all of these vessels were equipped with comprehensive antiaircraft systems or close-in weapons capable of intercepting missiles, the tactic left the ships themselves highly exposed to attack.1