Just some food for thought when considering Japanese Air Cover. Credit for the research goes to Ancient46.
http://www.ussarcherfish.com/warptrl/patrols.htm
"The complete reports for all seven Archerfish patrols in WW2. Patrol 1-11 aircraft contacts; Patrol 2-27 aircraft contacts; Patrol 3-40 aircraft contacts; Patrol 4-39 aircraft contacts; Patrol 5-10 aircraft contacts; Patrol 6-29 aircraft contacts; Patrol 7-3 aircraft contacts."
Thank you!
Happy Hunting!