Yes, another Pearl Harbor thread.
Let's say *waves hands furiously* that the Enterprise had been a little bit early in arriving at Pearl, and the Lexington a bit late in leaving, so both carriers are docked on Dec. 7.
First question: is this plausible? Or am I a complete idiot for even suggesting this?
Second question: would the Japanese attack be more, or less effective with the two flattops to hit? Sure, they'd both get hammered, but what would be spared in their place? Maybe one or two of the battleships gets off without being sunk? And, if Nagumo had foreknowledge of this, how would his plans be affected?
Third question: let's say the Enterprise is damaged severely and the Lexington is sunk. How does this affect the war in the Pacific? It's unlikely the Japanese will prevail, even with the increased loss, but what will the lack of carriers (except for the one in San Diego) do? What tactics get changed? How much longer does this make the Pacific war, and what effects will it have on the major battles that will still play out (i.e. Midway)?