Why shore and sea aviation need different structures

French naval aviation includes long-range maritime patrol aircraft as well as aviation embarked at sea. France has placed these elements in one service, in separate organizations, or in administratively distinct parts of the same organization at different times. Shore-based patrol aircraft and aircraft operating from ships solve different problems, so the organizational divisions have an operational basis. This background makes the later flotille and escadrille system easier to understand as a response to missions and technology.