Readiness shaped task allocation inside the Pearl Harbor strike. The Fifth Carrier Division had joined the newly organized First Air Fleet, but its air groups were not yet worked up for the principal anti-shipping role. Shokaku and Zuikaku therefore sent aircraft against Wheeler, Hickam, Ford Island, and Kaneohe Bay. Airfield suppression reduced the American aircraft available to interfere with the incoming waves, so this supporting mission was essential to the strike's overall success.
Notable Point · 48:53-50:29
Shokaku and Zuikaku suppress Pearl Harbor airfields
The newer Fifth Carrier Division air groups attacked American airfields because they were not yet worked up for the anti-shipping role assigned to the more experienced carriers.