Range determined both how many aircraft could reach an enemy and how much ordnance each could carry. A distant task group might face only the longest-ranged portion of the force, while a closer one entered reach of more squadrons with heavier loads. This created a graduated defensive zone rather than a single fixed line at sea. The purpose was deterrent as well as destructive: an opponent had to expect resistance to intensify with every move toward Soviet territory.
Notable Point · 37:25-38:50
Why Soviet strike density rose toward the coast
Soviet planners expected attacking forces to meet progressively heavier air strikes as they approached the homeland.