They were used as decoys for the Center Force; since the IJN was lacking planes and experienced pilots, the CAP got slaughtered by the escorting American fighter planes and gave the bombers a clear run at the carriers.
Poor Zuikaku and Zuiho, I'm sure Shoukaku and Shouhou were waiting for you both at the very end (I think those are their shadows in the background).
They were used as decoys for the Center Force; since the IJN was lacking planes and experienced pilots, the CAP got slaughtered by the escorting American fighter planes and gave the bombers a clear run at the carriers.
Poor Zuikaku and Zuiho, I'm sure Shoukaku and Shouhou were waiting for you both at the very end (I think those are their shadows in the background).