The horizon limits how far a ship can observe for itself. Longer-range guns could therefore create an earlier requirement for aircraft to spot and report fall of shot. That demand might also bring aircraft carriers forward. Another possibility is a radio system through which destroyers and torpedo boats ahead of the battle line provide spotting reports. These are alternative development paths whose timing remains open.
Notable Point · 2:54:19-2:55:03
The horizon could push naval spotting forward
Guns that reach beyond direct sight could encourage aircraft spotting or radio reports from smaller vessels ahead of the fleet.