The 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea: What if ... ?

What is it about?

We built a mathematical model to simulate the 1942 Battle of the Coral Sea between American and Japanese aircraft carriers. We then used the model to see what could have happened if the battle had been executed differently. What if the Americans had kept their two carriers separate, instead of sailing together? What if each ship had carried more fighter aircraft for defense, but fewer bombers for attack?

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Why is it important?

The battle ended in a tie, but it did prevent a Japanese invasion of Port Moresby. If the Japanese had won the battle decisively, they could have captured Port Moresby and gained a large advantage in the subsequent Battle of Midway. Conversely, if the Americans had won decisively at Coral Sea, it could have made their later Guadalcanal campaign much easier.

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