El, I think that the Japanese generals at the time knew that they could not win a prolonged war so decided to launch one massive coordinated attack to set the US back some months from even being able to respond coherently. They could shore up their territorial gains in the South Pacific and maybe the US public wouldn't have the stomach for war on two fronts.
They were counting on doing more damage at PH then they managed, especially the carriers.
They also miscalculated the US's resolve and willingness to accept casualties.
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