Operation C: close British attacks versus Japanese torpedo ambush

The counterfactual begins with the British night air strike that historically missed the Japanese carriers after reconnaissance bearings became confused. Had it found them, Japanese night-flying and damage-control limits could have left one or two carriers sunk or disabled before a surface action began. The next phase depended on surprise, radar contact, Somerville's willingness to send destroyers, and Nagumo's incentive to preserve ships needed against the United States. British light forces sought to close and overwhelm with fast gunfire and torpedoes, while Japanese doctrine aimed for a long-range torpedo ambush and force preservation. Whichever side gained the first effective contact could impose the engagement range best suited to its doctrine, so the outcome remains conditional.