Japan expected to withdraw toward its home waters while reconnaissance and repeated attacks weakened an approaching enemy. Its force structure offered a substantial advantage against France or Italy acting alone, but Britain and the United States could bring greater strength. The attrition plan addressed that larger threat by trying to reduce the enemy before a decisive battle. Victory was then supposed to produce a negotiated peace. The desired settlement would give Japan enough of its objectives to prepare for another confrontation.
Notable Point · 43:53-45:14
Japan seeks a decisive battle that can secure a negotiated peace
Japan's reconnaissance and attrition system aims to weaken a stronger enemy, win a decisive battle, and negotiate a settlement before another confrontation.