Fletcher radioed MacArthur the approximate position of the Japanese carriers and suggested that he attack with his land - based bombers .
Believing that he faced overwhelming Japanese carrier superiority , Fletcher elected to withdraw TF17 from the battle .
Fletcher radioed MacArthur the approximate position of the Japanese carriers and suggested that Fletcher attack with Fletcher 's land - based bombers .
Believing that he faced overwhelming Japanese carrier superiority , Fletcher elected to withdraw TF17 from the battle .