A carrier's immediate purpose extended beyond striking ships or cities. Its fighters could deny enemy reconnaissance, its spotters could direct the fleet's guns, and all of its aircraft could keep pace with the force. This created a reconnaissance contest in which shooting down enemy scouts mattered alongside finding targets for friendly weapons. Fuel and rearmament remained close to the action. The commander therefore had mobile reconnaissance and air defence under direct naval control.
Chapter · 32:14-33:09
Why fleets needed organic air power
Early carriers gave fleet commanders mobile reconnaissance, gunfire spotting, fighter defence, and nearby facilities for fuel and rearmament.