Final answer:
In World War II, fewer battles were fought between ships within sight of each other due to advancements in air power, radar technology, long-range gunnery, and the increased use of submarines in warfare.
Step-by-step explanation:
In World War II, fewer battles were fought between ships within sight of each other for several reasons. Firstly, the advancement of Air power meant that much of the combat could be conducted from the air, reducing the need for direct ship-to-ship combat. Aircraft could deliver payloads over long distances, providing a strategic advantage.
Secondly, Radar technology allowed for the detection of enemy vessels at great distances, thus allowing for pre-emptive strikes or maneuvers to avoid direct confrontation. This meant that ships no longer had to be within visual range to engage in combat.
Thirdly, Long-range gunnery also played a pivotal role. Ships could now fire at each other from distances that far exceeded visual range, which again reduced the number of traditional, close-quarters naval battles.
Finally, Submarine warfare had a significant impact. Submarines could quietly approach their targets underwater without being seen, fire torpedoes, and then retreat before they were detected.
All these factors contributed to the shift in warfare tactics during World War II, resulting in fewer battles being fought between ships within sight of each other.
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