What was a key characteristic of the Battle of Coral Sea?

The key characteristic of the Battle of Coral Sea being the first battle fought entirely with aircraft highlights a significant shift in naval warfare tactics. This battle, which occurred in May 1942, was notable for being conducted predominantly through carrier-based aircraft rather than traditional naval vessels engaging in gunnery duels. The aircraft from both the United States and Japan launched strikes against each other's fleets without the ships ever coming into direct visual contact. This was a pivotal moment in the Pacific Theater of World War II, illustrating the importance of naval aviation in modern warfare and setting the stage for future engagements that would rely on air power as a primary offensive and defensive strategy.

Understanding this element underscores the evolution of naval combat during the era and the increasing reliance on technological advancements, such as aircraft carriers and planes, rather than conventional battleships and surface combat.