Why the Dutch East Indies pulls Allied carriers together

Japan has to secure the southern resource area, so a surviving Allied fleet could force a heavier operation against the Dutch East Indies. Indomitable would already be present, Formidable might arrive in February, and American carriers are also considered likely reinforcements. British crews bring combat experience, while American carriers supply larger air groups. Allied intelligence about Japanese movements strengthens the expectation that these forces could concentrate in time. Reinforcing an existing command built around capital ships is more attractive than sending carriers into the region without that support. Japanese invasion forces proceeding without heavy cover would risk interception by Prince of Wales, Repulse, or Renown.