The American formation expects danger to the west, so Kido Butai approaching from the northeast or rear could find the battleships before the forward carriers. Deep water makes torpedoes more effective and prevents salvage of a ship that sinks. The Japanese might also find the oilers and fleet train, creating serious operational disruption even if Pearl Harbor's support infrastructure remains intact. Yet the battle line can maneuver and coordinate its anti-aircraft fire at sea, while the carriers ahead of it are less likely to be caught in the first wave. Surviving American bombers might then trail returning Japanese aircraft to locate and strike their carriers, turning the attackers' withdrawal route into a guide for the counterstroke.
Chapter · 1:34:33-1:43:35
If Kido Butai hunts the battle line instead
A Japanese approach from behind could surprise the battle line, but ships at sea could maneuver, mass their defenses, and send carrier aircraft back along the attackers' route.