Nine Zuiho Zeros attacked Enterprise's strike group from the direction of the sun when the opposing formations passed within sight. The fight cost four Zeros, three Wildcats, and two Avengers. Two further Avengers and a Wildcat had to return to Enterprise, and the Japanese fighter detachment also withdrew from further action. Aircraft assigned to an escort could therefore affect the enemy strike while being lost to their own formation's later battle. Around 09:00, American aircraft approached the Japanese ships while Japanese attackers found Hornet's task force. Enterprise's group was initially hidden by a rain squall, which helps explain why the first attack fell on Hornet.
Notable Point · 1:11:21-1:12:42
Zuiho's fighters intercept Enterprise's strike en route
The opposing strike formations crossed paths, drawing Zuiho's fighters into a costly attack before either force reached the carriers.