More ships could dilute attacks on Japan's carriers

Only four of Japan's available flight decks accompanied the force that mattered most. Even an awkward light carrier such as Ryujo could contribute aircraft and, in the worst case, draw attacks away from Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, or Hiryu. Bringing all four Kongos forward could likewise multiply the targets confronting American strike leaders. The calculation is brutal: commanders may expose additional valuable ships so an opponent disperses its attacks and fails to sink the assets that matter most. After Japan entered war with the United States, such target dilution became one of several least-worst choices rather than a route to a favorable long war.