Japan's attrition plan depended on an opponent continuing to advance after taking losses. The US Navy or Royal Navy could instead pause for repairs and reinforcements, turning the campaign into the prolonged contest Japan was least equipped to sustain. Japan lacked the industrial capacity, logistical infrastructure, supplies, and replacement resources needed for that kind of war. Greater investment in industry and alternative resources offered a possible remedy, with coal-to-liquid fuel production a particular priority in this assessment. Repeated tactical attacks could not by themselves resolve the economic imbalance behind a prolonged campaign.
Notable Point · 45:17-47:03
Japan's attrition plan outruns its industrial base
Japan can impose losses on an advancing fleet, but a prolonged war exposes shortages in industry, infrastructure, stores, and liquid fuel.