Q&A ยท 1:26:31-1:26:51

Scouting and chance in a two-carrier Midway

A two-carrier Midway remains possible, with first detection and chance central to the outcome.

Question

Could Midway be fought with two American carriers?

Short answer

Yes, but success would depend partly on luck and which side found the opposing force first.

Notes

Two carriers could still fight successfully at Midway, but the outcome remains uncertain. First detection and the luck involved in carrier operations prevent a confident prediction. The importance of finding the enemy first extends beyond this particular counterfactual.