Make a prepared defence absorb the invasion

A prepared position can compensate for troops that are not individually superior if they retain cohesion, reserves, and confidence in their works. Japanese formations would arrive after a tiring advance and with the same stretched logistics that troubled the historical campaign. Artillery, tanks, aircraft, commanders, and trained personnel are concentrated so they are not lost one piece at a time during the retreat. Units can rotate through the line to restore morale while reserves answer local penetrations. The plan also accepts scorched-earth measures and attacks on palaces used as Japanese headquarters. It assumes Keyes would prioritize winning the campaign despite the political reluctance that constrained other leaders.