Scouting, carrier strikes, and the daylight dilemma

The proposed plan uses submarines, light cruisers, merchant interceptions, and scout aircraft as layered reconnaissance before committing the battle line. Carrier aircraft would damage or delay the Japanese force, then heavier ships would close to engage. A night action would exploit Royal Navy proficiency but leave less capable allies out of much of the fight. A daylight engagement lets the entire multinational force participate and maximizes numerical superiority, though it also gives Japan a better chance to fight back.