Avalon's fighters cannot reach the incoming strike before it reaches the threatened battle group unless those ships move away. Their commander initially resists because his position blocks the enemy carriers' escape. The admiral orders him to evade, accepting a change in the blockade to avoid losing ships. The added time allows two fighter groups to arrange a simultaneous attack, with one holding position for thirty-five minutes before accelerating. Another group pursues the carriers, whose crews have committed every fighter to the strike.
Notable Point · 2:02:17-2:05:51
Moving the threatened ships gives their fighters time to intercept
A retreat changes the interception geometry enough to protect the threatened battle group while another fighter force pursues the enemy carriers.