Carrier mobility complicates every defensive search

A fixed air base can be located on a map, while a carrier can launch from different positions within striking distance of its target. Defenders must find the carrier before they can attack it, even when their shore-based weapons have a longer nominal range. Satellites improve the search, but methods of deception develop alongside the sensors. Cold War US Navy efforts to spoof Soviet satellites provide a later example of that continuing contest. The early Pacific raids show how reconnaissance and freedom of movement allowed each side to contest the pace and location of operations.